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HISTORY 



oh^ 



JBergen County 



Nkav Jersev ^fh 



I r^T^lTSTR ATTi: D 



J. M. Van^ VAi^Risr 



New Jersey I'UBLISHI^G and Engraving Company 
New York 

1 !)()() 



S 17. 



BinvKKs Pkintint. Comi-anv 

Pmi.AIlKI.l'HIA 

ly(it) 



PREFACE 



The "History of Ik-rg-yn County" is now suliUiitted to tho reader 
for his criticism. The book has been written by a number of ])ersons. 
all of them being old residents of the county and abundantly able to 
write on the subjects assigned them. It is for this reason the imblishers 
somewhat confidently send the \-olume forth, defective though it may be 
in some minor particulars. 

The compilation of the worfc covers a period of more than two 
centuries. In securing facts recourse has been had to divers authorities, 
including histories and historical collecticms, implying almost an endless 
array of papers and documents, public, private, social and ecclesiastical. 
That so much matter could he gathered from so many original sources 
and then sifted and assimilated for the production of one volume, with- 
out incurring a modicum of errors and inaccuracies, would be too much to 
expect; but it is believed, nevertheless, the historical value of the work 
has not been impaired therebv. Much credit is due to Hon. J. M. Van 
Valen for his editorial review, his revision having been of incalculal)le 
benefit. 

As to the biographical department, the work has been prepared 
somewhat in accordance with the idea entertained by England's greatest 
of historians, Macaulay, who said the history of a country is best told 
in the lives of the people. For this reason we have published personal 
sketches by the hundred, because of their historical worth, making that 
part of the work as exhaustive as possible. 

As to the general history, due credit has been give in most cases tor 
the borrowed matter. Particular mention, however, should be made ot 
the following authorities: " Whitehead's Work on East Jersey," "Everts 
& Peck's History of Bergen and Passaic Counties," "Rutherford Illus- 
trated," "Things Old and New." " Hackensack Illustrated," "The 
Bergen County Democrat's History of Hackensack," "C. H. Dunn's 
Picturesque Ridgewood" and other works, among which might be mem- 
tioned those by Dr. Edward H. Dixon and Dr. Thomas Dunn English, 
on the history of Fort Lee. all of which ha\'e furnished valuable 
material, and the same, whenever needed, has been uns])aringly utilized. 
Among those who have written for the work, and, in several instances, 
have done so somewhat extensively, may be eninnerated by the following 
contributors and their contributions: Ridgewood, Cornelius Doremus; 
Upper and Ivower Saddle River Boroughs, John (1. Esler; Union Town- 
shij), W. H. Castles; Rutherford. Addison Ely and others; Reminiscences 
of Lodi, Henry Kipp; "In Ye Olden Time," and other sketches, J. J. 
Haring, M. D.; Ridgeticld Park, John E. Hoey; Early Settlement of 
Kinderkamack. and other sketches. Hiram Loxier. Newburgh. N. Y.; 
Hasbrouck Heights. W. S. Laurence; Coloni.'il Buildings. Ernst Bil- 



4 PKEFACE. 

huber, Maywood; Revolutionary Reminiscences and other data on Fort 
Lee, James F. Tracey; Org-aniiiation of the City Government of Engle- 
wood, Robert Jamieson; History of Borough Organizations, George Cook. 
Allendale; Bernard Koster, Wallingtou, Frederic L. Colver, Tenafly; and 
a number of borough and township clerks, whose valuable contributions 
of this kind have been graciously given and thankfully received; Church 
history of Hackensack, Rev. H. Vanderwart; Church history of Ruther- 
ford and vicinity. Rev. Edwin A. Bulkley, D. D., and this list should 
include the names of Revs. Allan McNeil, of Ridgefield Park; Rev. C. 
Mondorf, Carlstadt; Rev. Artemas Dean, D. D., Englewood Cliffs; Rev. 
Joseph Dally, Englewood; Rev. A. Van Neste, of Ridgewood, and J. J. 
Ilaring, M. D., Tenafly, each of whom wrote special articles on church 
history. Due credit is also accorded to Professor R. S. Maugham, of 
Tenafly, for sketches on the various societies and organizations of Tena- 
fly; to Dr. David St. John, for a well-written pen description of Hacken- 
sack, including its sanitary history, and tn James E. Church, for the 
history of Hackensack Hospital. 

In the illustration of certain chapters of the work, we are in- 
debte<l to Ernst Bilhuber, of Maywood; Superintendent John Terhune 
and to Dr. David St. John, both of Hackensack; and to Mr. W. O. Alli- 
son, of Englewood Cliffs, for cuts of different kinds; and to other parties 
all over the county, including the secular press, in particular, for the 
valuable assistanee rendered in the comjiilation of this work, the kindest 
thanks are extended by 

Thk Publisheks. 




■^-J ty £■ C- i*«««^^ ^ 







CONTENTS 



Genekai, History. 



Chapter I 

Indian History. 

Chai-tkr II 



■In Ye Olden Time. 



Chai'Tek VIII. 



Civil (Jriranization of the Cininty of Berg-en. 



Chapter IX. 



Civil List of Berg-en County. 



Chapter X. 



City. Viij.ac.e. Township and BouorCH History. 



ChaiTER XV 



11 



Discovery and Occupati(jn of the New Netherlands. 

Chapter III ■^'* 

Early Settlement and Land Patents. 

Chapter IV ^'i 

Land Patents in Berg^en County. 

Chapter V 24 

Old Bergen Town and Township. 
Chapter VI -' 

The Old Township of Hackensack. 

Chapter VII 



32 



38 



41 



48 



Courts and Court Houses. 
Chapter XI ^^ 

Bergen County in Time of War. 
Chapter XII "<> 

Societies and Incorporated C'ompanies. 

Chapter XIII ^^ 

Internal Improvements. 
Chapter XIV 89 

Schools. 



92 



New Barbadoes — Hackensack. 

Chapter XVI '62 

Saddle Kivtr Township— B.)roMgh of (iarfield. 

Chapter XVII 1?** 

Franklin Township— Oakland. Wyckoff. Wortendyke. 

Chapter XVIII 1*^7 

Hohokus Kamseys, Mahwah. 
Chapter XIX 209 

Orvil Towii.ship- Hohokus. Waldwick, New Prospect. 

Caapter XX 219 

Boroughs— Allendale. Upper and Lower Saddle Kiver. 
Chapter XXI 238 

Ridgewood Borouglis (.f (ilcii Rock and Midland Park. 



(, CONTENTS. 



CllAl'TKK XXII -^'J 

Wa^hinirtoii Townsluii- Boroiiy-Iis of Ridsc Park, Muiitvale Wood- 
clilV, Westwood: the Township of Hill.sdale. Pascack. 

Chai'TKk XXIII -^l^* 

Midlaiui To\vnshii)--Borou<,'-hs of Uelford. Riverside and Maywood: 
Vilhiijes of Oradell, New Milford. Cherry Hill, and Spring Valley. 

ClIAl'TKR XXIV •'■'^■+ 

Lodi Township Boroiig-hs of Lodi. WallinH-fon. Carlstadt. Wood- 
rid.ye. Hasbrouck Heig-hts, Little Ferry and the Township of 
liers'en. 

CiiAi'TKK XXV -tlJ! 

Union Township— Kingslaiid, Lyndhurst, and the IJorouirh of 
North Arling-ton. 

CllAl'TKK XXVI 42M 

Borou<,rhs of Rutherford and East Rutherford 
ChapTKk XXVII 49+ 

The Township of Rid^elield— -Fort Lee. Ridsrefield Park. 
Ch A I'TKK XXVIII . ; .^.^2 

Borou!;hs of Ridgefield — Leoiiai, Fairview, tindercliff. Palisades 
Park, and Bog-ota. 

Cli A I'THK XXIX .=^85 

Englewood Township-City <if Knglewood and Englewood CliR's. 

Chaptkk XXX 6,?'» 

Teaneck Township— The Villa Grange. 

Cm Ai'TKK XXXI h,^l 

Palisades Township - Boroughs of TenaHy. Cresskill. DunKint and 
Bergen field. 

Chai'TKk XXXII 6S0 

Harrington Township — Northvale. Closter. Ueniarest. and Boroiig-h 
of Tappan. 



LLUSTRATIONS 



I'ACK 

Avfis. Dr. M. S 551 

Alison, Edward M 410 

Atwood. Georg^e H 12.? 

Ackerman, Abraham H 217 

Ackerman, Peter 255 

Ackerman, Residence of Peter . . 25? 

Allison, W. 538 

Allison, Residence of \V. U. and 

Palisade Avenue. 638 

.\ venue, May wood 322 

Hauer, Jacob 153 

Kechtel, Herman 17<) 

Rechtel Hotel ;.. 177 

Bilhuher, Ernst 330 

Bilhuber, Residence of Ernst 331 

Hog-ert, Andrew D <i29 

Hog'ert, Residence of Andrew D. fi32 

Bog-ert, Isaac D 29(> 

Robert, John \V 218 

Heniiett, William \V 648 

Bulkley, Edwin A 451 

Bell, John M 449 

Banta, William S 118 

Brinkman, Dr. Max. R 160 

Bridgman, R. M 281 

Barrett. David L 636 

Rush. David C 193 

Hhike, J. J 456 

Castles, W. H 226 

Cass, Alexander 618 

Carrigan, Residence of J. F 284 

C<iok, Georg-e 224 

Church, t'liion 518 

Crouter, C. P 268 

Cumming. Thomas H 142 

Cane, F. W ,S81 

Christie, Cornelius 521 

Christie, Residence of C-ornelius 525 

Christie Homestead 523 

Colver, F. E b77 

Christie, Cornelius [Leonia] .... 563 

Demarest, Garret Z 687 

Demarest, Daniel 1 346 

Demarest, C. V. B 1^4 

Demarest, Clayton 144 

Demarest School 583 

Dupuy, J. J 481 

Doremus, Cornelius 265 

Doremus, Residence of Cornelius 266 



DoGroot. Samuel E... 539 

De Rondo, .Vbram 621 

Darlington School 207 

Edsall. J. G 556 

Easton, Edward D 332 

Easton, ResideiKTe of Edward D 334 

Esler. John (i 2.% 

Feitner, John F 3i)9 

Feitiier, Residence of John F 370 

Garrison, Aaron G 191 

Glcncourt 109 

Gramlich, Alfred 4011 

Gramlich, Residence of Alfred . 401 

Hariiig, Dr. J. J 674 

Hackensack Hospital 106 

East Rutherford .School 475 

High School, Ridgewood 239 

Hales, H. W 279 

Hales, Residence of H. W 271 

Home, Rethmore 662 

Hudson River and Palisades .... 637 

Hutton, Isaac E 277 

Hotel. Overpeck 531 

Hose Company, Maywood 326 

Haa.s, Nelson ISO 

IvLson. David B 454 

Iviswold 453 

Jaeger, Gustav L 32S 

Jaeger, Residence of Gustav L. . 329 

Jacobus, Nicholas 543 

John.son. W. M 121 

Jones, J. Wyman 605 

Kohbertz, Mansion of F 397 

Kohbertz, Residence of F 401 

Koch. Louis 424 

Lydecker, Garret A 6U9 

Lydecker, Thomas W 613 

Lydecker, Residence of Thos. W bl5 

Laurence, William S 407 

Eozier, John B 3.vS 

Lozier, Residence of John B .. . . 340 

Lozier, John B., Dining Room. . 341 

Eozier. John H.. Winter (Juarters 342 

I,ozier, John B., Stock Barns 343 

Eozier, Hiram 344 

Ea Fetra, Daniel W 2til 

La Fetra. Residence of Daniel W 26,! 

Eibrary Hall 6.S6 

Marsellus, Henry 172 



8 



ILLUSTKATIONS. 



PAGE 

McMaiiLs, William "«* 

.Moliiiari, Anton 398 

Molinari, Residence of Anton ... 402 

Moeuch, A ■^^^ 

Mittag, Frank O ^03 

Mittag & Volger. Offices of 305 

Movverson, J. E 1^5 

Mercer, George C 384 

Mondorf , Rev. C 374 

McKenzie, William 477 

Mountain House, Ruins of 590 

Moore, J. Vreeland 5/1 

Moore, Stephen H. V -is 

Moore, Residence of J. V. and 

S. V. H 567 

Maywood Avenue 322 

May vf cod School House 325 

Maywood Art Tile Works 324 

Maywood Hose Company 327 

Osborne, John H., Residence of.. 234 

Ockf ord, George M 273 

Phelps, William Walter 641 

Paramus Church 251 

Palisades and Hudson River, 

View of h52 

Post, Peter J 482 

Quackenbush, John 208 

Roehrs, Julius 389 

Roehrs, Residence and Flower 

Houses of 389 

Residence, Colonial 327 

Ridgefield School 533 

Ravekes, Albert 527 

Roraeyn, Rev James Campen. . . 127 

Romeyn, Rev. Theodore Bayard 131 

Romevn, Rev. James 129 



P.\GE 

Romeyn, James A 133 

Rutherford School 433 

Rouclere House 282 

Ridgewood High School 239 

Ridgewood Reformed Church — 249 

Richter, Paul 668 

Richter, Dr. August 372 

Springer, Moses E 625 

Snyder, A. V. D 285 

St. John, Dr. David 124 

Shuart, James 204 

Stagg, Peter 135 

Shafer, Luther .' 447 

Sullivan. A. D 395 

St. John, Residence of Dr. D 97 

Tallman, Abram 634 

Terhune, John 148 

Tracey, James F 512 

Van Bussura, John 408 

Van Buskirk, Jacob 336 

View of Hackensack 96 

Von Hartz, Carl 458 

Volger, Theodore G 306 

Vogel, Charles 509 

Van Dien, John B 259 

Wheeler, George W 146 

Wallington School 386 

Wenger, Chas. L,. A 67I 

Westervelt, Jasper 645 

Winton, Henry D 140 

Zabriskie, David D 275 

Zabriskie, Andrew C 158 

Zabriskie, Peter L 279 

Zabriskie, Peter G 348 

Zinimermann, George 367 



History of Bergen County 



CHAPTER I 
INDIAN HISTORY 



\Vithout the histdry of the Indians who inhabited this section of the 
State the history of Bergen County would be incomplete. But neither 
history nor tradition can tell from whence these savag-e tribes came, nor 
how long- they had dwelt on these shores. A few statements, however, 
relative to them may not be without interest. 

It does not appear that the Indians inhabiting New Jersey were very 
numerous. An old publication, entitled ' 'A Description of New Albion " 
and dated A. D. 1648, states that the Indians inhabiting New Jersey were 
governed by about twenty kings, but the insignificance of the power of these 
kings may be inferred from the fact that only twelve hundred of these 
people were under the two Raritan kings on the north side next to the 
Hudson River. Whitehead, in his " East Jersey Under the Proprietary 
Ciovernment," says there were not more than two thousand Indians 
within the province while it was under the Dutch. The Indians inhab- 
iting the Lower Hudson and East Jersey country as far south as the 
Karitan are considered by most writers as belonging to the Delaware or 
Lenni-Lenape nation. Lenni-Lenape in the Indian tongue signifies 
"Original People." The tribes who occupied this section of New Jersey 
were called Raritans, Hackensacks, Pomptons and Tappeans. 

That "Wicked Nation," as DeLaet calls the Manhattans, dwelt on 
the island of Manhattan. Before the white man took up his residence in 
this country the Lenape nation was subjugated by the powerful Iroquois. 
The conquered nations, however, were permitted to remain on their 
former hunting grounds by the payments of tribute, which as an acknow- 
ledgment of their vassalage was exacted of them annually. 

During the year 1630 the first hostility of the Indians against the 
Dutch was directed against their plantation on the Delaware, which was 
totally destroyed and thirty-two men killed.' In 1641 an expedition was 
fitted out against the Indians on the Raritan, they having been accused, 
though wnmgfully, of trespassing and committing theft. Various 
causes led to the outbreak of UAX One cause was the exacting of a 
tribute from the Indians by Kieft, the Director-General, in 1639; another 
was the killing of a white man by an Indian in 1641 in retaliation for 
the r.)l)bery and murder of (me of his tribe many years before. 

In 1655 trouble again arose among the Indians during the absence 
of (xovernor Stuyvesant at which time they sought safety by flight to 
the West side of the river and at which time Staten Island was laid 
waste and Pav.mia was burned. The Pomptons and Minsies removed 



10 HISTORY OK BKKtiEN COX^NTY 

from New Jerse}- about 1730 and in the treat}' of 1758 the entire remain- 
ing- claim of the Delawares to lands in New Jerse}-, was relinquished 
except that there was reserved the rig-ht to fish in all the rivers and bays 
south of the Raritan and to hunt in all uninclosed lands A tract of 
three thousand acres of land was also purchased at Edge PiHock, in 
Burling-ton County, New Jersey, and on this the remaining Delawares 
of New Jersey, about sixty in number, were collected and settled. They 
remained there until the year 1802 when they removed to New Stock- 
bridge near Oneida Lake, New York, becoming there the Stockbridge 
tribe. In 1832 there remained about forty of the Delawares, among whom 
was still kept alive the tradition that they were the owners of the hunt- 
ing and fishing privileges of New Jersey. They resolved to lay their 
claims before the Legislature of this State and request that a moderate 
sum of ($2,000) might be paid them for its relinquishment. The person 
selected to act for them in presenting the matter before the Legislature 
was one of their own number whom they called Shawuskukhkung, mean- 
ing "Wilted Grass", but who was known among the white people as 
Bartholomew S. Calvin. He was born in 1756 and was educated at the 
expense of the Scotch Missionary Society. At the breaking out of the 
Revolution he left his studies to join the patriotic army under Wash- 
ington, serving with credit during that struggle At the time he placed 
this matter before the Legislature he was seventy-six years old, and 
when the Legislature granted the request Mr. Calvin addressed to that 
distinguished body a letter of thanks which was read before both houses 
in joint session and was received with repeated rounds of enthusiastic 
applause 



History of Bergen County 

CHAPTER II 

DISC( )VKRY AND OCCUPATION OF NKW 

NETHERLANDS 



The harbor or hay of New York was discovered b_y Estevan Gomez 
in 1(>25. Gomez was sent out b\' the Emperor Charles V. of Spain, who 
had fitted out the expedition for the purpose of discovering- a shorter 
passage to the East through the continent of North America. From 
Winfield's History- we find that all the country extending from New 
Jersey to Rhode Island was named "Estevan Gomez" at that time. It 
was from Gomez the natives obtained the maize, or Spanish wheat. 

It is possible that Verrazzano in his voyage from the Cape of the 
Breti.n Southwest to Florida sailed into the harbor of New York in 1524, 
as the charter of Henrj- IV of France was granted to De Monts, in 1603 
by '.irtue of that claim. The Charter of Acadia embraced all that por- 
tion of the country- lying between the fortieth and forty-sixth degrees 
north latitude and consequently included the greater part of New Jersey. 
The grant of the French King, however, was ignored by the English, 
and in 1()07 Henry Hudson was sent out by the East India merchants in 
pursuit of northwest passage to East India, but he was unsuccessful in 
his search. The Dutch East India Company with unshaken faith in the 
■"bold Englishman", as they termed Hudson, put him in command of a 
yacht or Vlie boat of thirty tons burden called De Halve Mann, ( Half 
Moon ), to make search for that much sought after northwest passage to 
India. Hudson left port on April (>, 1()09 for New Foundland, his boat 
being manned by a crew of twenty, partly English and partly Dutch. 

* " By his agreement with the Company, dated January 8, 1609, he 
was to sail about the first of April in search of a passage to the north of 
Nova Zembla, and to continue along that parallel until he was able to 
sail south to the latitude of sixty degrees, and then hasten back to report 
to his employers. For this service he was to receive eight hundred guil- 
ders, and, in case he did not come back within a year, they were to give 
his wife two hundred guilders more. In case he found the passage, the 
Company were to reward him for his dangers, troubles and knowledge, 
in their discretion." 

■(■"Hudson's anxiety to discover his favorite passage led him to dis- 
regard his orders, and he coasted southward as far as Chesapeake Bay, 
and, returning, cast anchor inside of Sand}' Hook on the 3d of Seji- 
teinber. The scenery around delighted him, and he pronounced it " a 
very good land to fall in with, and a pleasant land to see.' 

■Ju.-l-.. .loinnal .,1 IIuiKoirs V.ivairc. (History .)f lii-ifiii aii.l I'assaic Coumii's. 



12 HISTOKY OF BEKGEX COUXTV 

" Hero Hudson mot the natives for the first time. The journal says. 
'The people of the country came aboard of us, seeming very glad of our 
coming, and brought green tobacco and gave us of it for knives and 
beads. Thev go in deer-skins loose, well dressed. They have yellow 
copper. Thev desire clothes, and are very civil.' On the 6th of Sep- 
temljer, John Coleman, an Englishman of the crew, with four men. was 
sent to sound the river opening to the north, — the Narrows. They 
sailed through and found 'a very good riding for ships." They found 
also 'a narrow river to the westward between two islands,' — the Kill 
VanKull. Passing through these two leagues they came to an open sea, 
—Newark Bay. The Dutch called it Achter Cull— that is, the after 
bay, because it lay behind the Bay of New York. It was called by the 
English After Coll, and sometimes, corrupting the word, they called it 
Arthur Cull. It is sometimes applied to the territory bordering on the 
Itav. as well as to the bay itself. On their return they were attacked l>y 
a hostile party of twenty-six Indians in two canoes : Coleman was killed 
bv an arrow which struck him in the throat, and two more were 
wounded. It is th<mght that these Indians came from Staten Island, as 
the Jersey- Indians visited the ship the next da}- and were ignorant of 
what occurred. The next day the body of Coleman was buried on Sandy 
Hook, and the place where it was interred still bears the name of Cole- 
man's Point." 

Returning again through the Narrows, Hudson cast anchor on the 
11th of September in the Harbor of New York, "and saw that it was a 
very good harbor for all winds." 

The report of Hudson's discovery caused a new field of trade to be 
opened which the East India Company, becoming eager to monopolize, 
sent out another ship in 1610 for the purpose of trading in furs. Five 
years afterwards a company' of merchants who had procured from the 
States-General of Holland a patent for the exclusive trade on the Hud- 
son River, had built forts and established trading posts at New Amster- 
dam (New York), Albany and the mouth of the Rondout Kill. The 
fort at New York on account of the "'fierce Manhattans" was erected on 
what is now the Battery. 

May 11th, 1647 Petrus Stuyvesant succeeded the reckless Kieft as 
Director General, under whose ordinances villages and communities on 
the west side of the Hudson began to spring into existence. 

Lords and Patrons of New Netherlands now supplied the Schouts 
and Schepens for Bergen County and until the surrender of the Dutch to 
the English in 1664 this change of government was followed bv a grant 
or charter from Charles II to his brother James, Duke of York, of the 
territory from the western side of the Connecticut River to the Eastern 
side of the Delaware River including New York and New Jersev. In 
the same year James, Duke of York by indenture of lease and release, 
granted and sold to John, Lord Berkely, Baron of Stratton, and Sir 
(k'orge Carteret, of Saltrum, the territory of Nova Ca?sarea, of New Jer- 



HISTOKV OF HKK(;i'".\ COrXTY 1,1 

st'v. Under their charter from the Duke of York, Berkeley and Carteret 
])r<iccede(l to establish civil g-overnment in New Jersey. For this pur- 
jiosl' thev had a constitution drawn up in Eng-land, entitled "Tlu' t'on- 
cessions and Ag-reement of the Li>rds Proprietors of the Province of 
New Cttsarea or New Jersey to and with all and every the x\dventin'ers. 
and all such as shall settle or plant there." This instrument was en- 
L;riisst'<l iin parchment, and signed by ttu'ni on the 10th of February. 
\hh4. Philip Carteret was appointed (iovermir of the province, but did 
Ucit arrive thither till August, 1665. In the mean time New Jersey was 
placed under the jurisdiction of Col. Richanl Nic(dl. (iovernor of New 
York. During the interval a legislative council or assembly convened 
at Flizabethtown on the loth of A])ril, l<i(i4. Bergen was represented 
in this Assembly — the first e\er held in the province — by Engelbert 
Steenhuysen and Herman Smeeman. This government was continued 
over the Province of New Jersey until the estaljlishment of the separate 
Pro])rietary governments after the division into East and West Jersey. 
On the 1st of July, 1()7(). jiartition was madeof New Jersey by deed, 
so that the eastern part, known as East Jersey, was allotted to Sir 
(Jeorge Carteret. Sir (ieorge, by his last will and testament, dated De- 
cember S. 1()7S, devised the same to John, Earl of Bath, and others, as 
trustees, to sell the same, and ap]iiiinteil IClizabeth Carteret sole execu- 
trix . and she, with other trustees, by deed nf lease and release, dated 1st 
and 2d of February, IdSO, s(dd and conx'eved all East Jersey to William 
Penn and eleven others, which twelve persons were known by the name 
id the "Twelve Proprietors of East Jersey." These twelve proprietors, 
by twelve separate deeds, in 1682, conveyed each one-half of their re- 
spective interests in East Jersey to James. Earl of Perth, and eleven 
others, whereby East Jersey became held by twenty-four General Pro- 
prietors, each holding in fee one-twenty-fourth part or propriety of the 
same. Thus from these proprietors ha\e issued from time to time their 
deeds for tlie jmrtions of territnry sold bv them in East Jersey, their 
office being at I'erth Amboy, where all such conveyances and other 
records have been kept. 



History of Bergen County 

CHAPTER III 
EARLY SETTLEMENTS AND LAND PATENTS 



Aert Tunisson \'an Putten was the first white resident in Hoboken. 
Winfielrt sa3-s, that "On Kebruarj- 15, l(i40, Van Putten leased a farm 
at this place on which was a farm-house and a brew-hoitse, but no set- 
tlement as yet had been made north of Hoboken." Jan Evertse Bout 
had settled at Cummunipaw in 1(>.^4, which was one of the first settle- 
ments on the west banks of the Hudson. The first ferrj" across the 
Hudson connecting- the Jersey shore with Manhattan Island was estab- 
lished at this point in 1661 and William Jansen was the legalized ferry- 
man. In 1()S(), Cummunipaw was a village of twenty families. 

The peninsular of Paulus Hook on which Jersey City is now situ- 
ated belonged from a very remote period to the Van Vorst family. Jer- 
s.>y City was a township in Bergen County from 1838 to 1840. On the 
2Sth of July 1()85, live hundred acres of laud in Monmouth County, N. J., 
was granted to George Scott, by the East Jersey proprietors. Scott 
wrote a book in which he gives a general view of the plantations and 
settlements in East Jersey in part as follows : 

"There are other plantations upon Hackensack River, whicli goes a jrreat way 
lip the country, almost northwest ; others, also, on the east side of another creek or 
river at Hackensack River. 

"A larg-e neck or tract of land for which one Mrs. Sarah Kirstead. of New 
York, had a patent <fiven by an old Indian .sachem in recompen.se for interpretinfr 
the Indian lanffiiatfe into Dutch, as there was occasion ; there are some little families 
thereon. 

" Two or three miles up. a f,'reat plantation settled by Capt. John Berry, whereon 
he now lives. 

" .\nother plantation adjoining-, belonging- to his son-in-law, Michael Smith : 
another to Mr. Baker.- This neck of land is in breath from Capt. Berry's new plant- 
ation on the west side, where he lives, over to his old plantations, to the east at 
Hud.son's River side, about three miles, which distance serves to Constable's Hook, 
upwards of ten miles. 

" To go back to the .south part of Bergen Neck, that is opposite to Staten Island, 
where is but a narrow passage of water, which ebbs and flows between the said 
island and Bergen Point, called Constable's Hook. There is a considerable plant- 
ation on that side of Constable's Hook, extending inland about a mile over from the 
bay on the east side of the neck that leads to New York, to that on the west that 
goes to Hacken.sack and Snake Hill, the neck running up between both, from the 
s lUth to the north of Hudson's River, to the utmost e.vtent of their bounds. It was 
Hrst settled by Samuel Edsall in Col. Nichol's time, and bv him sold for ;^t>00." 

Other small plantations along the Neck, to the east are named. 
Among them one 

•■ belonging to George Iliupane (Gomouneepan) which is over against New York, 
where there is about forty families, within which, about the middle of the neck, 
which is here about three miles over, stands the town of Bergen, which gives name 
to that neck. Then, again, northward to the water's side, going up Hudson's River, 
there lies out a point of land where is a plantation and a water (mill) belonging to a 
merchant in New York. 



HISTOKV OK liKKCKX CcirxTV ]r> 

" Southward there is a stnall village, of about five of six families, which is cutr.- 
moiilv called the Duke's Farm. Further up is a ^ood plantation in a neck of land 
almost an island, called Hobuck ; it did Ijelonif to a Dutch merchant, who formerly 
in the Indian war had his wife, children, and servants massacred by the Indians, 
and his house, cattle, and stock destroyed by them. It is now settled aijain, and a 
mill erected there by one dwelling- at New York. 

" Up northward along- the river side are the lands near to Mr. William Lawrence, 
which is si.x or seven miles further. Opposite thereto there is a plantation of Mr. 
Ed.sall. and above-that Capt. Rienfield's plantation : this last is almost opposite the 
northwest of Manhatta's Island. 

•' Here are the utmost extent of the northern bounds of East Jersev, as alwavs 
contemplated. 

"Near the mouth of the bay, upnn the side of Overpeck's Creek, adjacent to 
Hacken>ack River, several of the rich valleys were settled by the Dutcli ; and near 
Snake Hill is a fine plantation owned by Pin'horne A- Eickbe.'for half of which Pin- 
horne is said to have paid ^500 

■" The plantations on both sides of the neck to its utmost extent, as alsc. tlio^e at 
Hackensack, are under the jurisdiction of Berg-en Town, sitnate about the middle 
of the neck." . . . 

Soon after the settlements above described Ca])tain William Sand- 
ford in 1668 acquired title to lands kno-wn as New Barbodoes Neck com- 
prisino- 15,30S acres. Sandford was presiding judge of the court at Ber- 
gen in 1673. In 17(1M, his widow Sarah Sanford conveyed to her friend, 
Katherine Van Emburgh a portion of this estate between the Hacken- 
sack and Passaic rivers. In Idd') Captain John Berry and his associates 
acquired title to lands north of the Sandford tract embracing a large ex- 
tent of country in and about Hackensack. Judge Sandford sold a large 
tract also, to Nathaniel Kingsland the ancestor of the Kingsland family 
of New Barbodoes. William Kingsland son of Nathaniel, was the first 
to settle on it about 16')(i. John Richards who was connected 1)V mar- 
riage with the Kingsland r.-unily, owned a large tract of land a part id' 
which is now Rutherford, Richards was murdered in the Bergen woods 
by refugees during the Revolutionary war. The Schuyler Copper Mines 
a part of the Kingsland tracts was purchased by Arent Schuyler about 
the year 1700. John, son of Arent Schuyler, 1)y his second wife, built 
the old Schuyler mansion which stood on the east bank of tlie Pas- 
saic below Belleville. This house was visited and frei|uentlv violated 
l)y the British during the Revolution. 

In 1700 there were some ten families all living in the northwestern 
part of Bergen County, in the neighborhood of Ponds Church. Arent 
Schuyler, and Anthony Brojkholst lived here in 1()')7. The tlarretsons, 
\'an Alens, ( who owned six hundred acres on the pond flats) the Berdan 
l)rothers, John Stek (now Stagg) Van Romaine, who purchased of Wil- 
locks an<l Johnstone six hundred acres. May !<*, 1724, Simon Van Win- 
kle who is said to have been the owner of the first wagon in the countrv 
and who came here in 173,3, were among the early settlers. I'^ive hun- 
dred and fifty acres of land lying at Wikehoff, Saddle River, on wliieli 
the church at Wikehoff stands was purchased (d' John IJarln'tie, IVter 
Fauconicr and Andrew Barbetie, August, 17, 1720, by John and Williinn 
Van Voor Haze; and for some reason they repurchased this tract Ap.ril 2, 
1745 of John Hamilton, Andrew Johnstone, and John Burnet. William 
\'an \'oor Haze ( Van \'oorhis i was twice married. He died Julv 17, 



1(, HISTORY OK BEKOEN COUNTY 



1744. A tract near Paraimis of tiYe hundred and lifty acres was boujjht 
August 17, 1720, by the Albertises who also leased i>f the same live hun- 
dred and tiftY acres adjoining-, the rent for every one hundred acres be- 
ing- two fat fowls on or before the feast of St. Michael, the Archangel. 
Van Blarconi, Van Voorhis, Winters, Couriers, Young-s, Storms, Acker- 
mans, yuackenbushes, Van (^elders, Pulisfelts mow Pulis) and Bogerts 
were also among the early families in this part of the county. The fol- 
lowing sketch on land patents in Bergen County taken from Clayton & 
Nelson's Historv is worth v of record. 



CHAPTER IV 
LAND PATENTS IN BERGEN COUNTY 



Among the original land-owners in the Countv of Bergen we name 
the foll<.)wing : 

Abraham Isaacsen Plank purchased Paulus Hook of the Dutch West 
India C(mipany Ma^- 1, 1()38. The deed was confirmed by Philip Carte- 
ret May 12, lf)68. Martzn Andriesen obtained a patent for Weehawken 
from William Kieft, Director-General of New Xetherland, May 11, 1()47; 
confirmed by Philip Carteret, April 18, 1670. Andriesen was a free- 
booter and a desperate character, and was chieilv responsible for the 
terrible massacre of the Indians in 1643. Being charged with this re- 
sponsibility by Governor Kieft, he attempted to shoot the Governor, for 
which he was arrested and sent in inms to Holland for trial. He re- 
turned to New Amsterdam, and purchased Weehawken in 1()47. 
He was born in Holland in 1600, and came first to this country in 1()31. 
Nicholas Varlet obtained a patent of Hoboken of Petrus Stuvvesant, 
February 5, 1()63; C(mfirmed by Philip Carteret, May 12, 1(><)S. Mr. 
Varlet was one of the noted men of his times. His second wife was 
Anna, sister of Governor Stuyvesant, and widow of Samuel Bavard. 
In 1657 he was appointed commissary of imports and exports, and in 
1()58 became farmer of duties on e.xports and imports to and from New 
England and Virginia; was admitted to the right of "Great Burger," 
and appointed searcher, inspector, and commissary of the West India 
Company stores; in 1660 was sent with Brian Newton and ambassador 
to the Colony of Virginia; in 1664 was appointed one of the commissioners 
to agree upon terms of capitulation to the English; in 1665 was com- 
missioned captain of the militia of Bergen, Communipaw, Ahasimus, and 
Hoboken; same day was made a member of the court at Bergen, and 
the vear following a member of Governor Carteret's Council. He died 
in lfi75. 

Ide Cornelison Van Vorst received of Governor vStuyvesant a grant 
of land at Ahasimus, April 5, 1664; confirmed, with an additional grant, 
by Philip Carteret, March 13, 16()8. This property was inherited l)y his 
only son Cornelius, and from him descended to Cornelius n{ the seventh 
generation. It is now the finest part of Jersey City. 

Jan Evertse Bout obtaine<l of the Governor and Council of New 
Netherland a tract of land at Communipaw, of which the following is a 
copy of the deed: 

•• We, 'William Kieft, Governor-General and Council muler llie IIif,'h and Mighty 
Lords States-(;eneral of the United Netherlands, His Highness of Orange and the 
Honorable the Directors of the authorized W^est India Conipanj', residing in New 



18 HISTOKV OF BERCiEN COUXTV 

Netherlands, make known and declare that on this daj- underwritten, we have g-iven 
and granted Jan Evertse Bout a piece of land lying: <'" the North River westward 
from Kort Amsterdam, before then pastured and tilled by Jan Evertse, named 
(iamochepaen and Jan de Lacher's Houck, with the meadows as the same lay with- 
in the post-and-rail fence, containing eightj'-four morg-ans. 

" In testimony whereof is these by us signed and with ovir Seal confirmed in 
Fort Amsterdam in New Netherlands, the which land Jan Evertse took possession 
of Anno 1638, and began then to plow and sow it." 

This farm was sold to Michael Jansen by Bout for eight thousand 
Horins, Sei)tember 9, l().Sf), and, Jausen dying, part of it was confirmed 
to his widow, Fitje Hartman, by Philip Carteret, May 12, 1668. 

Caspar Steinmets purchased of Philip Carteret, May 12, 1668, two 
tracts of land and meadow near the town of Bergen. He resided at 
Ahasimiis, and during the Indian troubles of 1655 retired to New Ams- 
terdam, where he was licensed in 1656 to "tap beer and wine for the 
accommodation of the Burghery and Strangers." In September, 1657, 
he was made lieutenant of the Bergen militia, and in 1673 was promoted 
to captain. He was deputy from Bergen in the Council of New Orange 
(after the Dutch had retaken New York), 1674, and a representative 
from Bergen in the first and second General Assemblies of New Jersey. 
He died in 1702. His descendants at one time were quite numerous, but 
have long since died out. 

Adrian Post obtained a patent of (lovernor Carteret dated May 12, 
1668. for "sundry parcels of land lying in and abotit the Town of Ber- 
gen." He was the ancestor of the Post family in Bergen County, and 
had numerous descendants. The first we hear of him he was agent for 
the Baron van derCapelleu, and in charge of his colony on Staten Island 
when the place was destroyed by the Indians in 1665. In October of 
that year he was appointed to treat with the Hackensack Indians for the 
release of prisoners. He was ensign of the Bergen militia in 1673, and 
was the keeper of the first prison in East Jersey, the house of John 
Berry in Bergen being used for that purpose. He died February 28, 1677. 

Englebert Steinhuysen received a deed of " sundry parcels of land 
in and about the Town of Bergen," from Philip Carteret, Julv 22. l()7(t. 
This land comprised seven lots, amounting in all to one hundred and 
fifty acres.* This patentee was a tailor by trade, and came from Soest. 
the second city in Westphalia. He arrived at New Amsterdam in the 
ship "Moesman," April 25, 1659. He was licensed by the Director-Gen- 
eral the first schoolmaster in Bergen, October 6, 1662. He was commis- 
sioned schepen in the Bergen Court, October 13. Ifi62; and with Harman 
vSmeeman re])resented Bergen in the "Landtag" in 1664. t 

Harman Edward purchased of Petriis Stuyvesant "sundry parcels 
of land lying in and about the Town of Bergen, September 14, 1662." He 
was one of the commissioners to fortify Bergen in 1663; and with Joost 
Van der Linde, Hendrick Jans Spier, and Hendrick dc Backer, June 15. 

' Wiiilield's Land TUK-s. iU. 

t Hrodlu'ad. i. 729.— Land Titli's. 'il. 



IIISTOKY (IK KKkGEX COTNTY V) 

1()74, petitioned the g-overnment for land on Staten Island at the mouth 
of the Kill Van Kull.t 

Balthazer Bayard obtained, with Nichnjas \'arlot, a grant of land 
from Philip Carteret, dated August Id, 1()71, lying in and about the Town 
of Bergen. Bayard was a brewer and a l)rother of Nicholas. He was 
appointed schepen in Bergen, December 17, l()(>,i, and March 17, l()fi4; repre- 
sented Bergen in the first and second (ieneral Assembly of New Jersey, 
1()(>.S. Shortly after this he became a resident of New York, where he 
was schepen under the Dutch (New Orange) in 1<>73, and alderman in 
1(>')1. Of the lands in Bergen the patentees held as joint-tenants. Var- 
let died before any division was made, whereupon Bayard took the land 
bv right of survivorship. S 

Tielman Van Vleck obtained by patent from Philip Carteret, (kited 
March 25, 1(>70, a grant of sundry parcels of land near the Town of 
Bergen. Van Vleck was a lawj-er. He studied under a notary in Ams- 
terdam, came to this countr}^ in 1658, and was admitted to practice the 
same vear.|| He has the honor of having been the founder of Bergen, 
and was made the first schout and president of the court, September 5, 
K.I.I. 

Hans Diedrick was granted by Philij) Carteret sundry parcels of 
land lying in and about the Town of Bergen, May 12, K.f.S. Hans kept 
the second hotel in Bergen, licensed February 1.^, 1(>71, and was appointed 
lieutenant of the Bergen militia, September 4, lr>7.>. He was one of the 
patentees of Aquacknonck, May 28, 1679, and died September 30, 1(>'>8. He 
"probably left his land to his son Wander, who died intestate, August 13, 
1732. His children Johannes, Garret, Cornelius, Abraham, Antje, wife 
(if Johannes Vreeland, and Margaret Van Rypen, widow, sold to their 
brother Daniel, February 17, 1764, a lot called 'Smiths land.' seven mor- 
gans, also a lot of meadow, also tlie Steenhuvseii lot, and lot 114. They 
partitioned in 1755."^! 

(ierrit Gerritse was granted by Philij) Carteret a p.itent for sundry 
parcels of land lying in and about the Town of Bergen, May 12, H>(>H. 
"This patentee was the ancestor of the Van Wagenen family. By his 
will, dated October 13, 1708, he gave all the land included in this patent, 
and a preceding patent, to his eldest S(m Johannes. By the will of 
Johannes, dated July 24, 1752, proved November 8, 1759, he gave all his 
lands in Bergen to his son Johannes, who was the owner in 17()4." 

The Secaucus jiatent was granted by Petrus Stuyvesant to Nicholas 
Varlet and Nicholas Bayard, December 10, 1663, and confirmed by Philip 
Carteret, October 30, 1667. In the deed of Carteret it is recited: "The 
said plantation or parcel of land is esteemed and valued, according to 
the survey and agreement made, to contain both of upland and meadow, 
the sum of two thousand acres English measure." It coni])rise(l all tlic 
land between Penhorn's Creek and the Cromahill on the east and the 

• Col. Hist. N. Y., ii. 731. -Land Till.-s. 'Ir. 
S Land Titles, l(l'). 

N. v. Col. MSS..viii. '132. Xolf to l.-.uu] Till.-s. 114. 

• Land Titles, 118. 



20 HISTOKY OF BEKC.EX COUNTY 

Hackensack on the west. The Indians, in lf)74, claimed that their right 
to this hind was not inchided in their deed to Stuyvesant of 1658, that 
the said deed included only "Espatingh and its dependencies," and that 
they were, therefore, still owners of Secaucus. The Dutch Council at 
Fort William Hendrick settled the controversy with them by making 
them a present of an "anker of rum." Nicholas Varlet died while the 
tract was in the possession of the patentees, and his administrators, 
Samuel Edsall and Peter Stoutenburgh, joined Bayard in selling it to 
Edward Earle, Jr., of Maryland, April 24, 1676. Earle sold to Judge 
William Piiihorne, March 26, 1679, for five hundred pounds, one indi- 
vidual half iif the tract, also one-half of all the stock, "Christian and 
negro servants." The following schedule of property was annexed to 
the deed: "One dwelling house, containing two lower rooms and a 
lean-to lielow stairs, and a loft above ; five tobacco houses ; one horse, 
<me marc and two colts, eight oxen, ten cows, one bull, four yearlings, 
and seven calves; between thirty and forty hogs, four negro men, five 
Christian servants." This was the Pinhorne plantation referred to by 
George Scott in his "Model of the Government of East Jersey. "'■' 

In 16f>8 Capt. William Sandford obtained of the Indians a deed for 
New Barbadoes Neck, extending northward seven miles and containing 
fifteen thousand three hundred and eight acres of upland and meadow. 
A considerable portion of this land Capt. Sandford devised in his will to 
his wife Sarah, who on the 7th of December, 1709, gave by deed about 
fi\-e hundred acres, including one hundred and fifty acres of meadow on 
the Passaic, to her "dear friend Katherine Van Eml)urg." Apart of 
Sandford's tract, soon after his purchase from the Indians, was bought 
by Nathaniel Kingsland, who had been an officer in the island of Bar- 
badoes, and from this circumstance it received the name of New Bar- 
badoes. 

Capt. William Sandford was presiding judge of the Bergen courts 
in 1676, and a member of the first Council of East Jersey, under Gover- 
nor Rudyard, in 1682. 

Isaac Kingsland, son of Nathaniel, of New Barbadoes, was a mem- 
ber of Governor Neill Campbell's Council in 1(>86. 

CAFT. .lOHX berry's PATENT. 
In 1669, Capt. John Berrj- and associates obtained a grant for lands 
lying northward of Sandford's, "six miles in the country." This grant 
extended from the Hackensack River to what is now Saddle River, and 
probably included the site of the present village of Hackensack. In the 
same year a grant was made to Capt. Berry of land lying between Hack- 
ensack River and Overpeck (now English) Creek, bounded on the south 
by lands of William Pardons, and running north, containing about two 
thousand acres. This must have inckaded a large portion of what are 
now Ridgefield, Englewood, and Palisade townships, — that portion of 
them, at least lying between the creek and the Hackensack River. 

* Land Titles, 130. 



HTSTOKV OK BEKGKN COrxTV 21 

John Berry was a large land-owner. He resided at Berg-en, where 
lie also owned six meadow-lols and six upland lots, besides two lots in 
the town purchased of Philip Carteret. .July 2(i, 16f><J. Most of Ihis 
hind was in the Newkirk familr in 17()4. when the land were surv yed 
by the comissioners. John Berry was i>residing judge of the courts at 
Bergen, and one of the magistrates before whom Thomas Rud^'ard, the 
Deputy-Governor of East Jersey under Barclay, was sworn into offije, De- 
cember 20, 1082. His house in Bergen on the 19th of July, 1()73, was made 
the "prison for ye province" until a house cimld be built for that pur- 
pose, and Adrian Post, constable, was made keeper. t 

The oldest deed on record in the county clerk's office at Hackensack 
is one from John Berrv to Zuarian Westervelt. dated Jan. 1.^, l(iS7, con- 
veying a portion of his estate in the old township of Hackensack. 
March 20, 1687, he conveyed another piece of land to Walling Jacobs. 
of the county of Essex. 

DEMAREST PATENT. 

Another early patent was one for tliree thousand .acres of land in 
the old township of Hackensack, extending along the easterly side of 
the river fnmi New Bridge to a point beyond Old Bridge, and easterly 
as far as the line of the Northern Railroad. This was granted to David 
Demarias (Desmeretz) and others, by Philip Carteret, June 8, l()77.t 
The patentee was a Huguenot, and came from France to this country 
with his three sons, Dayid, John, and Samuel, about the year 167(>. He 
was the ancestor of the numerous family of Demarests in this country. 
It is said that, as far back as 1820, one interested in the family found 
by search seven thousand names connected with it, -branches of the 
original stalk.;; 

According to tradition, Mr. Demarias lirst settled at Manhattan 
Island, where he purchased the whole of Harlem ; but he soon after- 
wards disposed of that property and removed to the Hackensack. where 
he made the purchase above mentioned, his design being to establish a 
colony of some thirty or forty lamilies. to be transported from Europe. 
It was probably in view of this declared purjKJse that the patent was 
granted him ; for it must have been known by the Governor or the land- 
ofRce that the grant was already covered, in large part at least, by the 
prior patent of two thousand acres given to John Berry. It is stated 
that Mr. Demarias and his associates were so harassed l)y the claims ol 
different persons during half a century that the land was purchased by 
them no less than four times. Berry, however, at the request of the 
Ciovernor, waived his claim for a time in view of the prospective settle- 
ment, and, in case of its failure, was promised a like grant in some other 
locality. On the 1st of July, 17(»'>, Demarias having failed to fultill his 
stipulati(m in regard to the settlement. Berry petitioned the "Captain- 
(leueral and Governor-in-Cbiel' of the Provinces of New Jersey and New 

t BoDk 3 »f Deeds, 'W, Trenu.ii. 

; Difii i>n record al Penh Amlx.v. 

5 Riv. T. U. Ronievirs Historic.il IJiscoui^e. 



HISTOKY OK BKKGEN COUNTY 



York, etc., to listen to ;i demonstration of the invalidity of a pretense of 
John Deniarest & Company to three thousand acres of land which they 
received from the Indians." 1| The Governor subsequently withdrew the 
•jrant from the sons of David Demarest, according to Berry's represen- 
tation, and g-ave them a smaller grant, which included a part of the two 
thousand acres of Berry.* This latter grant was known as the French 
Patent, probably because the Demarests came from France. 

WILLOCKS' AND JOUXSTOX's PATENT. 

Ceorge Willocks and Andrew Johnston were the patentees of a large 
tract of land in what are now Ridgewood and Franklin townships. It 
extended from the Big Rock at Small Lots ( now called Glen Rock ) 
northward to the Ramapo River, about one mile in width, and has been 
known as the " Wilcox and Johnson Patent," both names, however, 
being erroneously spelled. 

George Willocks was born in Scotland, and came to this country in 
1()S4. He is said to have been a brother of Dr. James Willocks, of 
Kennerv, Scotland, from which he inherited a large estate. He was the 
agent of the East Jersey proprietors for the collecticm of the quit rents, 
and obtained various grants of land from them. Upon the issuing of 
the writ of quo warranto by James II.' with the view to vacating the 
proprietary government of New Jersey and placing the whole North 
American colonies under one tiovernor-General, in lf>8(), Willocks and 
Lewis Morris took strong ground in favor of the proprietors. Through- 
out that memorable contest between the proprietors and the king, which 
was not finally settled till 1702, when the proprietors surrendered their 
claim to the civil jurisdiction of the province to Queen Anne, Willocks 
and Morris were staunch adherents to the rights of the proprietors. In 
1()'>^), Willocks was their representative in the Assembly, and was dis- 
missed from that body by the famous act of the opposition excluding 
from the Assembly "any proprietor or representative of one." The 
people of Amboy elected Lewis Morris in his stead, and the historians 
tell us there were "serious apprehensions of an insurrection under the 
leadership of Willocks and Morris." Willocks never settled on his patent 
in this county ; he resided chief!}' at Perth Amboy, where he died in 1729. 
Andrew Johnson ( Jonstone), the other patentee, was born December 
20, 1694. When a voungmanhe was a merchant in New York. Hesubse- 
sequently became associated with the proprietors of East Jersey, and was 
chosen i)resident of the Proprietary Board. He was also a member of 
the Provincial Assembly, and for several years Speaker of the House; 
and was one of the commissioners for runninu: the Lawrence line between 



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HISTOKY OK bi:k(',I':n COT'NTY 23 

East and West Jersey in 1743. For some time he was treasurer of the 
College of New Jerse}-. He died at Perth Amboy, June 24, 17()2.t 

The lands south of this tract on the Passaic, including a portion of 
tire site of Paterson, were purchased of the Indians in 170'> by George 
Rverson and Uric Westervelt. The original deed was in the possession 
of the late John J. Zabriskie, of Hohokus, and is among the papers left 
in the hands of his widow, now living in Paterson. In this deed an ex- 
ception is made of Sicomac, which was an Indian burving-ground. 

t Wliitt'head's New Jersey under the Proprietors. 



CHAPTER V. 
OLD BERGKN TOWN AND TOWNSHIP. 



Bv an act of the General Assemblj-, in 1662, East Jerse}- was divided 
into lour counties, viz: Bergen, Essex, Middlesex and Monmouth. 
The territory between the Hudson and Hackensack rivers extending 
from Constable Hook to the Providence Line constituted the county of 
Bergen, it being a narrow strip of land in no place over five or six miles 
wide, but from twenty-five to thirty miles in length. The old township 
of Bergen was constituted in 1658 twenty-four years prior to that time, 
and it comprised the southern portion of this strip of territory as far up 
as the present northern boundary of Hudson county. In 1693 an act 
defining the boundaries of townships was passed by the General Assembly 
and from that act we obtain the boundaries of Hackensack Township as 
follows : "That the Township of Hackensack shall include all the land 
between the Hackensack and Hudson rivers that extends from the Cor- 
poration Town Bounds of Bergen to the Partition of the Province." 

By an act passed Jauuar}- 21, 1709, the territory of the county was 
extended and comprised the Hudson county and part of Passaic. The 
boundary line was as follows: "Beginning at Constable Hook so up 
along the bay and Hudson River to the partition point between New 
Jersey and the Province of New York ; along this line, and the line 
between East and West Jersey to the Pequanock river ; down the Pequa- 
nock and Passaic rivers to the Sound and so following the Sound to 
Constable Hook, the place of beginning." In 1837 thecount}- of Passaic 
was set off and in 1840 the county of Hudson was constituted, leaving 
the county of Bergen with an area of 230 square miles or 147,622 acres. 
The township of Union again became a part of Bergen Count}' in 1653. 
The township of New Barbadoes in 1693 comprised all the land between 
the Hackensack and Passaic rivers from Newark Bay on the Southeast 
to the present boundary line of Sussex County. This territory, a part 
of Essex County, was annexed to Bergen County in 1709, out of which 
came the townships of Hohokus, Franklin, Washington, Midland, Lodi, 
Union, and the present township of New Barbadoes, while Englewo(jd 
and its neighboring townships on the north and south of it were consti- 
tuted out of the township of Hackensack in 1871. 

The territory now comprising Hudson County, then known as Ber- 
ge;i Town was piurchascd from the Indians by the Director-General and 
Counsellor of New Netherlands for Michael Pauw, Burgomaster of 
Amsterdam and Lord of Achticnhoven, near Utrecht, August 10, 18()0. 
Pauw also obtained a deed from the Indians for Staten Island and on 
the 22nd of November following, a deed for the western shore of the 
Hudson between Communipaw and Weehawken where Jersey City is now 
situated. This purchase on the Jersey shore of the Hudson was namod 



HISTOUY OK BKKCiEN COUNTY 25 

Pavonia, the name being derived from Latanizing- the name of Mr. 
Pauw, the purchaser ; and was applied to the general colony on the west 
bank of the Hudson for a number of years. Mr. Pauw by an agreement 
was obliged to plant a colony of fifty souls, upwards of fifteen years old 
within the bounds of his purchase within four years from the date of 
his contract, but that project evidently failed. In l(>3>3 there was a col- 
ony in Pavonia under the charge of Michael Paulusen or Paulaz, and 
the West India Company appears at this time to have had an agent there 
in the interest of the proprietor or patroon Difficulties arising finally 
between the Patroon and Mr. Pauw and the Directors of the Company, 
the latter finally succeeded in purchasing Pavonia for 26,000florins. Part 
of it ( Ahasimus) became known as the West India C' mpanv's Farm and 
was leased by Jan Evertsen Bout. 

In 1638 the Indians became troublesome and the county, on this 
account, was kept in an unorganized condition for many years resulting 
finally in the Ordinance of 1656 creating a fortified town and the pur- 
chase of Bergen Township from the Indians in 1658. This latter deed 
conveyed all that part of Old Bergen east of the Hackensack river and 
Newark Bay now known as Hudson County. The hill on which Bergen 
was built is now called Jersey Cit}- Heights. The town was laid out in 
a square, the sides of which were eight hundred feet long. Around this 
square run a street flanked on the exterior by Palisades enclosing the 
whole town. The town was divided into four quarters by two streets 
crossing each other at right angles. Gates were on the four sides to 
lead through the Palisades. The village having grown so rapidl}- on 
the 5th of September. 1651 an ordinance was passed erecting a Court of 
Justice at Bergen, by Petrus Stuyvesant on behalf of the High and 
Mighty Lords States General of the United Netherlands, etc., etc. The 
first officers of the court appointed under the Directors of the West India 
Company were Tielman Van Vleck, Schout (Sheriff^); Hermanius 
Smeeman and Casparus Stuymets Schepens, (Magistrates). These 
officers were held until the surrender ui New Netherlands to the Crown 
of Great Britain in 1664 which resulted in the new charter of Bergen on 
the 22nd of September 1668 confirmatory of the rights under the Dutch 
Charter of 1658. Under this charter the Government of the township 
was maintained until January 14, 1714 when an act was passed in the 
reign of Oueen Anne giving the township still more extensive powers, 
and this Government of the town continued until necessities resulted in 
the erection of the territory into a county 

The name Bergen was given to the village and subsequently ajjplied 
to the township and county. Smith, Whitehead and some others think 
the name is derived from Bergen in Norway, but Dr. Taylor, Mr. Win- 
tield and others reasonably conclude it was a Dutch name. In speaking 
<if the origin of this name Mr. Winfield says : — 

" IJerfjen in Norway received its name from the hills which almost surnjiind it. 
Herffen op Zoom, eig'hteen miles north of Antwerp, stands on a hill surrounded 1)V 
low marshj- ground, which, with its fortifications, afforded great security. Thus it 



2(> HISTOKV OF BEKGKN COUNTY 

will be seen that the two supposed g-odfathers of our Bergen received their name 
from local circumstances. Are not the same circumstances existing here to give 
the same name to the new village ? On two sides of the hill was marsh, and the 
onlj' other place for settlement was along the river. To the eye of the Hollander, 
accustomed to look upon marshes or lowland redeemed from the see, the ridge grow- 
ing in height as it extended north from the Kill Van Kull, was no mean affair. To 
him it was Bergen, the Hill, and, like the places of the same name in Europe, it 
took its name from the hill on which it was built. This I believe to be the true 
origin of the name." 



CHAPTER VI. 
THE OLD TOWNSHIP OF HACKEXSACK. 



"In 1682 Bergen County embraced only the territory between the 
Hackensack and Hudson Rivers, from Constable's Hook up to the prov- 
ince line — a narrow strip of land along the west side of the Hudson, at 
no place over five or six miles wide, and from twentj'-five to thirty miles 
in leng-th. The old township of Bergen, from the date of its charter, in 
1658, comprised the southern portion of this strip of territory, as far up 
as the present northern boundary of Hudson County ; and the settlements 
above that, being regarded as "outlaying plantations," were attached 
to Bergen for judicial purposes, and so remained until 1693, when an act 
defining the boundaries of townships was passed bv the General Assem- 
bly. That act recites as follows : 

"That the Township of Hacksack* shall include all the land between Hackin- 
sack and Hudson's River that extends to the Corporation Town Bounds of Bergen 
to the Partition line of the Province." 

*Si) spelled in the act. 

It appears from this act that the township of Hackensack was bound- 
ed on the north by the province line of New York, on the east by the 
Hudson River, on the south bj- the corporation line of Bergen, and on 
the west by the Hackensack River. It covered nearly the whole table- 
land of the Palisades Mountains, and the beautiful valley of the Hack- 
ensack on its eastern side from the New York State line to the northern 
boundary of Hudson County. The scenery of this region, including the 
Palisades and the views of the Hudson and its valley from their summits, 
is among the most picturesque and romantic in America. Here the In- 
dians loved to roam before the advent of the white man, and their bark 
canoes glided down the smooth waters of the Hackensack to their summer 
resort on Staten Island. This was their avenue from Tapaan to the Kill 
van Kull. and out among the bays and inlets around New York. 

(;i<.\NTS OF I.ANIJ. 

Amotig the early purchasers of land from the Indians in this town- 
ship were Casper and Alattvs Jansen. We find the following allusion to 
them and their lands in 1684, in the records of the Governor and Council 
of East Jersey : 

"The petition of Casper Jansen and Alattys Jansen, setting- forth that about 
seven years since II677) the petitioners obtained by gift from the Indians a parcel of 
Land lying at Hackinsack, on the North side of the creek, which gift was then also 
acknowleilged by the said Indians before the late Governor Carteret, who promised 
the petitioners a Confirmation of the sanie, only delayed the full grant or the patent 
till the adjoining lands should be purchased from the Indians aijd laid out into I^ots, 
and that since one Jacques Le Kow hath entered upon tile said lands and taken pos- 
sesion of the same without having any Indian deed of gift. The petitioners jiray- 
ing a warrant to lay out the same directed to the surveyor-General in order for a 
patent, which being read and the petitioners called in, wlio brought with them ttvo 
Indians that had formerly given the said land to the petitioners, and the Indians 
being examined concerning the premises, declared that they never made any deed 
to Jacques Le Row of the said land, but that the same did belong to the petitioners, 



28 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

whereupon it was ordered that both parties attend this board the 27th 9ber next, 
that they bring- with them the Indians concerned, and that Jacques Le Row have 
notice thereof."* 

* From the History of Bergen and Passaic Counties. 

This extract from the authentic records carries us back to lf>77, 
when lands were purchased from the Indians by Casper and Alattys 
Jansen. They show that the Indians are still residents of the township, 
and were ordered broug-ht before the Governor and council at Elizabeth- 
town. The "creek" referred to in the Indian g-rant, on " the north " 
of which lay the lands in dispute, was probably that of English Neig-h- 
borhood. One Jacques Le Row was then a settler in that vicinity, for he 
IS complained of as having " taken possession without grant or warrant"" 
from the Indians. 

The name of the township and that of the river which formed its 
western boundary had been derived from the Indians, who had lived 
along its banks and had fished in its waters from time immemorial 

Most of the early purchases of lands from the Indians and grants 
from the g-overnment within the bounds of the township are referred to 
in another portion of this work, and need not be repeated here. The 
early settlers were of the same class as those who colonized the township 
of Bergen and gradually extended themselves from the Neck northward 
between the two rivers. 

TR.\DITIONS OF VAN DEK HOKST AND OTHEKS. 

There can be little doubt that the lands between the Hudson and 
the Hackensack were selected in the early days of New Netherland 
settlement as the manors of some wealthy patroon from Holland. Myn- 
dert Myndertsen Van der Horst, of Utrecht, was one of these, and in 
1641 he had a plantation, purchased of the Indians, extending from 
Achter Kull, or Newark Bay, far up the valley of the Hackensack. It 
is said that he selected for his town site the beautiful situation on the 
Hackensack now known as Little Ferry, and that, in consequence of the 
introduction of strong- drink among- the Indians, he and his settlement 
were doomed to destruction. The house of Van der Horst was burned 
onthenightof SeptemberlT, 164.^, andhisplantationmadedesolate. This 
story is not wholly traditional ; there are enoug-h historical facts to war- 
rant the conclusion that Von der Horst was an actual resident of the 
vicinity, althoug-h it is difficult to tell precisely where his house was 
located, or what his plans were with reference to the establishment of a 
town. On the oldest map of New Netherland, that of Vanderdonck, 
published in 1656, we find the colony of Van der Horst laid down. It is 
called the "Colonie van der Heer Neder Horst," and is situated on the 
Hackensack, as described above. 

The Baron Van der Capellon also essayed to establish a colony in the 
old township of Hackensack. He had purchased Staten Island of the 
Indians, and founded a colony there, which was destroyed in 1655. He 
then, throug-h his agent, "concluded a treaty with the Indians, with 
submission to the courts of justice at Hospating. upon Wearkamius- 



HISTOKY Ol' BKKC.KN COUNTY 2') 

Connie, near Hdckensack." This was in 1657. The place " Hospatinuf" 
('•Espatin," a hill' was on Union Hill, between the Hudson and the 
Hackensack, and on the boundary line between the old townships of 
Hackensack and Bergen. This attempt to establish a settlement and 
courts of justice was temporary. If it existed till the conquest of 1(>64, 
it was probably g-iven up at that time. Traces of the foundations of 
buildings were known to exist in that locality not more than half a cen- 
tury ago. 

THK PATENT OK JOHN DEMAKEST, 

located in this township, is thus referred to in the records of the flovernor 
and Council of East Jersey. May 30, 1684, page 109 : 

"The petition of John De Maris for licence to purchase 2''0 acres of land of the 
Indians at Kinderkamacke, at Hackensacke, ahove the mill, in order to patetitinf;' 
thereof. Ordered that he have licence g^ranted him to purchase, making- use of such 
persons as the Governor shall appoint for Nicholas De Vow and others, who pre- 
sented their petitions yesterday."' 

In the same records, on page 30, it appears that David De Maris 
presented a petition, and was asked by the council : 

■' what lands he had purchased of the Indians for the supply of his saw-mill, 
although the land is not patented to him and his son. The land purchased is about 
two miles in breadth, and coming to a point, and six miles in length. Agreed that 
David De Maris have patents for the lands which is surveyed to him and his sons at 
two shillings an acre. But that we cannot see reason to grant liberty to cut the 
timber from the land he takes not up until further matters appear than what is yet 
manifested, and that our purpose is to view the same." 

It is of record that Peter Fanconier purchased of William Davis 2424 
acres of land on the east side of the Hackensack in 1709 

CIVIL ORG.\NIZ.A.TION OK THE TOWN.SHIP. 

After 1()"<3 the township had its local court for the trial of small 
causes. We hnd this several times referred to in different records, but 
in no instance in such a manner as to indicate where in the township the 
court was held. Probably English Neighborhood was the chief place, 
as that was one of the most important early settlements. 

The minutes of the board of justices and freeholders from 1715 i the 
earliest extant in the clerk's office at Hackensack ) to May 10, 1769, while 
they give the meetings and transactions of the board, do not indicate the 
representatives from the particular townships. At the meeting. May 
111, 1769. Martin Rowleson appeared for Hackensack township, and was 
freeholder in 1770, '71, '72, '73, '75, and in the May meeting of 1776 : 
Jacob Demot, 1769, '70, '71, '72. '73, and '75. They were also freeholders 
in 176S, and Demot in 1767 : Jnhn Benson in 1773. '74. "75, '76, and Yost 
Zabriskie in 1774. 

There was no meeting of the board from Mav 15. 1776, ti> May 13, 
177S. The last entry in 1776 is, "Ordered that this book lie kept in the 
charge of W^illiam Serrell, clerk.'" Serrell had been clerk of the board 
from May 10, 1769. The stormy times of 1776 admonished them of the 
uncertainty of their next meeting, and so they made this order. When 
they met again a new order had superseded the old provincial system, 
and New Jersey had been nearly two years a State. Hence on the 13th 



?.0 HISTORY OK BEKGKN COUNTY 

day lit" May, 177S. when they assembled again, the first entry in the 
hook, in round, bokl letters, is, 

"State ok New Jek.skv." 

Some of the members of the board just before and during the Revo- 
lution had suffered loss of property and life in maintaining the cause, 
which in 1778 was still one of doubt and uncertaint3% although the cam- 
paign in New Jersey had ended in defeat to the British, and the au- 
thority- of the latter had been superseded by a republican form of gov- 
ernment. 

From 1794 the following were freeholders of the township: 

1794. 1800-2, John Demott : 1794, John Huyler; 1795-96, ISly, John G. Benson; 
1795, Nicholas Westervelt : 1-96-97, Dawes Westervelt ; 1797-99, 1802-15, John P. 
Diirie: 1798-99, Isaac Nicoll ; 1800, Cornelius Banta; 1801, Cornelius Westervelt, 
James Westervelt: 1803, Henry Demott; 1804-5, Albert A. Westervelt; 1806-7, Geo. 
Brinkerhoff; 1808-15. Richard Powels ; 1813, Isaiah Johnson ; 1816-18, John Wester- 
velt. Jr. Peter C. Westervelt : 1817, .S. Brinkerhoff : 1819, 1821-24, 1827-28, Peter C. 
Westervelt; 1819-24. 1827-28, John Westervelt, Jr.; 1820-26, 1829-33, William Elv ; 
1820. John Edsall ; 182.5-2b, Richard Paulison ; 1829-33, Jacob C. Terhune ; 1834-3'6. 
John I. Demarest, Jr. ; 1834-36, 1848-.50, John R. Paulison ; 1837-39, Peter C. Wester- 
velt ; 18.37-38, Garret Westervelt ; 1839-41, 1846, Abraham Elv : 1840-42, 1849-51, Jacob 
H. Brinkerhoff ; 1842-44, Peter R. Bogert ; 1843-45-John C. Westervelt; 1845-47, Jacob 
P. Westervelt ; 1847-48. John W. Westervelt ; 1851-53, James Elv ; 1852-54, Thomas 
W. Demarest ; 1854-56. John J. Bertholf ; 1856. John A. V. Terhune; 1857-60, Paul R. 
Paulison ; 1857-59. David I. Westervelt; 1860-62, Peter Bogert, Jr. ; 18bI-63, Samuel 
Degroot ; 1863-64, 1866, George Huvler ; 1864-6f), Albert J. Bogert ; 1867'68, Garret A. 
Lv'decker; 1868-69. Perer P. Westervelt; I869-7O, Jo.seph Stagg ; 1870, Samuel S. 
Demarest. 

This old township during the Revolution was the theatre of some 
battles and of many e.xciting scenes and raids b}- the British and Tory 
refugees. At every accessible point along the Hudson from Weehawken 
to Tappan the British soldiery penetrated to the interior, driving off 
cattle, seizing and destroying the property of the settlers, burning 
buildings, and often slaughtering in cold blood men, women, and de- 
fenseless citizens, whose only crime was their patriotism and hatred of 
British opprcssi<m. In this township stood Fort Lee and the old block- 
house, so famous as the place of refuge for a band of the most unscrup- 
ulous Tories of the Revolution. We will only give one extract here 
from the records of that period. It is c(mtained in a letter dated Clos- 
tcr. May 10. 1779: 

"This day about one hundred of the enemy came by the wav of 
New Dock, attacked the place, and carried off Cornelius Tallman, Samuel 
Dtmarest, Jacob Cole, and George Buskirk ; killed Cornelius Demarest ; 
wounded Htndrick Demarest, Jeremiah Westervelt, Dow Tallman, etc. 
They burnt the houses of Cornelius Demarest, Matthias Bogert, Cornel- 
ius Huyler, Samuel Demaresfs house and barn, John Banta's house and 
barn, and Cornelius Bogert's and John Westervelt's barns, Thev at- 
tempted to burn every building they entered, but the fire was in some 
places extinguished. They destroyed all the furniture, etc., in manv 
houses and abused many of the women: In their retreat they were so 
closely pursued by the militia and a few Continental troops that thev 
took off no cattle. They were of Buskirk's corjjs, — some of our Closter 



HISTOKY or KEKGEN COrNTY 31 



and old Tappan neig-hbors, joined by a parlv of negroes. I should have 
mentioned the negroes first, in order to grace the British arms." 

Hendrick and Cornelius and Samuel Deniarest were probably des- 
cendants of the old proprietor of Hackensack of that name. Their 
neighbors had turned Tories, and in that awful contest for their fire- 
sides and their homes, brother may have fought against brother and 
father against son. 

Nearly four years before these calamities at Closter, New Jersey 
had declared herself independent of the British crown, and nearly three 
years before all the American colonies had joined in the same patriotic 
declaration. The burning dwellings and barns and the insults to their 
W(mien only served to tire the hearts and nerve the arms of the people of 
Hackensack in defending their country. 

"The town.ihip in 1840 was ten miles long and from three to five 
miles wide. It then largely supplied the New York markets with gar- 
den vegetables. Its annual sales of these products amounted to near 
S42,000, a large township income at that day, more than doubling that 
of any other township in the county. Its four bridges crossed the Hack- 
ensack River, viz., at Hackensack Village, New Milford, Old Bridge, 
and New Bridge. At these places and at Schraalenburgh, Closter, and 
Mount Clinton were a few dwellings, scarcely enough even then to call 
any of them a hamlet. English Neighborhood, in the southern part of 
the township, was thickly settled, and had one Reformed and one Chris- 
tian Church. The township then c(mtained five stores, nine grist-mills, 
six saw-mills, six schools, and two hundred and eighty -one scholars. It 
had a population of 2631. 

By the census of 1865 the old township of Hackensack had a popu- 
lation of 7112, and by the census of 1870, which was the last enumer- 
ation before the division and linal cessation of the township, it had a 
population of 8039. 



CHAPTER VII. 
IN YE OLDEN TIME." 



A few years ago there appeared in the columns of "The Record." 
Tenafly, a series of articles bearing upf)n the former customs and habits 
of the people of the "Old Township of Hackensack," which at the time 
created more than passing interest. The easy fluent style of the writer, 
J. J. Haring, M. D., under the pseudonym of the " Whittler " makes it 
exceedingly difficult to abridge his articles without impairing his sen- 
tence structure; yet his treatment of the varit)us subjects which fell 
under his notice was so elaborate that of necessity, we are obliged to 
discard much interesting matter simply because it is less historical than 
otherwise. We haye therefore taken wholly such paragraphs from his 
writings as bear directly upon our subject, and in so doing haye, we 
think, placed upon record much valuable matter which should be pre- 
seryed. In speaking of the people of colonial and later times who took 
up their abode on the east side of the county, the writer says, "nearly 
all of them to the 'manor born' had descended from good, honest, in- 
dustrious Holland and Huguenot stock." Although within sound al- 
most of the hum of the great metropolis they had become known only 
to the tourist and occasional stranger pedestrian, and so had escaped its 
distracting, disturbing and disintegrating influences. 

Their perserying industry had not only rendered the broad acres of 
the valley productive, but had cleared and tilled the slopes well on to 
the high plateau west of the Palisades. The immense walls resulting 
from freeing these slopes of stones and which scarce]}' suggest a retro- 
spective thought to the modern dweller, are monuments to their pluck 
and industry. 

The cattle roamed through the farmers' broad fields and the silence 
of nature, through many a quiet afternoon, w^as only broken by the 
tinkling of the bell attached to the leader of the herd and by the lowing 
of the kine saluting and answering each other from adjacent farms. 

Ouaint houses and commodious barns dotted the valley from "the 
Sloat" (Pierraont), to English Neighborhood (Englewood) and beyond. 
Here and there through the valley still stands one of the old time dwell- 
ings answering to the following description : 

The main building was constructed of stone, for the most part 
small, irregular, and pointed with white mortar, making the walls pe- 
culiarly conspicuous. 

The roof was broad and angulated about ten feet from the peak. 
From the angle the roof sloped more abruptly till near the eaves where 
it curved gracefully, extending usually about six feet beyond the wall. 
These stone houses had usuall}' a broad hall running midway through 
from the front to rear. The inside walls were plastered but the ceilings 



HISTOKV OF HKKdKN COVXTY .^,> 

over head were formed by the bare beams often of extravagant dinien- . 
sions and the upper floor board, Ixith unpainted but smoothly plaiud 
and kept scrupulously clean by the periodic use of soap and brush. 'JMie 
outer doors were cut in two laterally and designated as the upper and 
under door. In moderate weather the former was nearly always opened 
during the day and often during the evening affording fine ventilation, 
while the latter served to exclude curious eyes and prevent the exit of 
the baby and the two frecjuent intrusion of the house dog and other do- 
mestic animals. 

The peculiar customs and manners of the toilers of the Northern 
Railroad Valley a half century ago were largely due to the cmditions 
favoring if not compelling the exercise of frugality. 

The soil of the Northern Valley and slopes owing to geological 
causes and conditions a description of which would, if time permitted, 
make an interesting paper of this series, was not noted for its natural 
fertilitv. Its productiveness was in proportion to the care and labor be- 
stowed upon it, and its adaptation to certain staple crops needed the 
farmer's careful consideration. Rye being grown much more success- 
fullv than wheat, naturally- became the leading cereal. Ground into 
flour by the local miller it found its way into the bread tray and by the 
skillful manipulation of the wife or daughter it furnished bread for the 
family — sweet, nutritious and wholesome. This spread with golden 
butter and overlaid with wholesome home-jnade cheese was the combi- 
nation associated with almost every man's meal. 

Cornmeal supplied material for cornbread and mush, the latter 
usually eaten with milk. A bushel of choice corn was occasionally sent 
to the miller who, soaking it for a few hours in cold water then passed 
it coarseh' through his burr stones, removing the shell and breaking it 
into coarse grains. This called "samp" cooked as it was by the farm- 
ers' wives was equal if not superior to the best modern hominy. Corn 
and oats were relied upon for the farm stock. Potatoes, vegetables and 
fruits were of course at hand in their season and preserved with care 
and judgment for winter use. No canning of fruit was known but the 
farmer's wife always provided a good stock of sweetmeats in the form 
of preserved peaches, quinces, plums, pears and other small fruits. One 
of these was upon the table at almost every meal. Concerning their use 
there was however an unwritten law emphasized b}- an occasional pa- 
rental hint that they were to be spread thinly over the buttered bread 
and not eaten by the saucerful with a spoon as the occasional city \ is- 
itor did, much to the amazement and consternation of the family. 

The apple crop was one of the most important of the farmer's pro- 
ducts. Three or four score dollars found their way into his exchequer 
from the sale of his choice fruit. The dropped apples were gathered 
for the pigs, the sweet ones usually' given to the colt. Upon almost 
every farm there was a frostproof apple cellar built of stone, partially 
under ground and thatched with straw. Into these the winter apples 



34 HISTORY OF BEKfVKN COl'NTV 

were placed and the door barred not to be opened till earl}' spring when 
the market price suited the owner, and the apples were then quickly 
shipped to the New York market. From one to four barrels of u;ood 
cider were annually made by the average farmer. In large families 
nearly an entire barrel was utilized in the making of apple butter which, 
wholesome and satisfactory to the palate was rarely absent from the 
farmer's table for months following. The vinegar barrel was always 
kept well tilled. So fast as used it was replenished from the stock of 
hard cider. A good share of at least one barrel of the best cider was 
kept for table use and for evening gatherings. In these olden times a 
load or two of apples from the larger growers found their way to the 
distillery at so much per bushel. Candor compels the admission that 
occasionallv in preference to hard cash the farmer received in return for 
his apples a certain number of gallons of apple whiskev mutually agreed 
upon. This was alwa^'s convenient for external use and considered by 
some of the old timers conducive to the comfort of the inner man. 
Temperance and total abstinence, to the mind of the latter were not 
synonymous terms. 

Every large farmer under the good olden calendar from which these 
chips are whittled produced and packed his own pork and beef. The 
surplus buttermilk and the odds and ends from the kitchen were utilized 
in the pork production, and a horned animal bought at a low price in 
the summer or raised perhaps on the farm was turned to pasture and 
cornfed for a month or two in the autumn. About the last week in No- 
vember usually on Tuesday', from one to four fat dressed porkers were 
seen hanging in a row in the farmer's back yard. A week or two later 
the dressed carcass of beef would be hanging in the farmer's barn. 

The clothing of the farmer's family presented questions which 
necessarily found their solution along the same practical lines as those 
growing out of the subsistence department. There are in the older 
ranks of the farmers to-day those who to the period of earlv manhood 
were clothed almost entirely in home-made fabrics from domestic ma- 
terial. Their fathers and grandfathers were flax and wool growers and 
passed their raw material through the various stages and processes till 
it came from the local looms and shops in substantial fabrics adapted to 
the farmers' wants, and were made into needed garments chieflv bv the 
wives and daughters. 

In the Dutch homesteads of to-day through the valley there are still 
treasures in the shape of home made linen sheetings, wtiolen blankets, 
&c., which are highly prized by the owners as the work of their worth v 
and industrious grandfathers and grandmothers. 

The farmer's wardrobe was not elaborate. All ordinary garments 
were made at home in the family, the tailor being only employed by the 
day occasionally to l;iy out the work. The best suit of the farmer as 
well as that of the wife and daughter was expected to last for several 
j-ears and the expectation was rarely disap]iointed. 



HISTORY OF BKK(;KN COUNTY 



A wuolen cloak of >r()o(l quality i>t those days was placed away each 
sprinsr and Iiroug-ht out in the fall aud worn for a dozen years affordinir 
to the wearer the most genuine satisfaction during the entire period. 

Woolen underg-arments were not considered necessarv as a rule. 

Stockings ^vere knit during the long winter evenings, linen ones for 
warm and woolen ones for cold weather. 

Working clothes were made in the most sim])le manner, comfort and 
dural.)ility I)eing the governing considerations. 

The furniture in the old homesteads of the valley was simple and 
inexpensive. A good jiroportion of it was home made including the 
tables, stands, chairs and cupboards. The last named were for various 
uses and very capacious. The bureaus in which were kept the linen, 
were usually more pretentious. In every family there were one or two 
large chests in which to pack winter clothing. These were made if pos- 
sible from cedar wood supposed to afford protection against moth and 
insects generally. 

The long clock found in many homesteads was the one article of 
extravagance and luxury in which the olden time fathers indulged. 

At the period from which these chips are whittled stoves were 
luiknown, and broad fire places and brick ovens furnished the ways and 
means for warming and cooking. 

The capacious chimney, the wide tire places, and the and-irons the 
■' back log," the '" fore stick," and the intervening wood, the last three 
all ignited, the blazing lire leaping upward changing each moment in 
shape and form, throwing darker and lighter shadows upon the walls, 
all made up a picture which the eye tired not in watching, and which 
possessed an attractive force and mellowing influence which have been 
sadl}' missed since modern ideas and requirements made the scene 
described only a memory of happy hours long gone never to return. 

Fifty years ago matches had not been invented and the flint :in(l 
steel with the accompanying " tinder box " were upon the mantel ol 
every kitchen. The light for this room was furnished for the most ])art 
by the blazing wood, and that of the sitting room l)y the tallow candle 
made by the dipping process in the outer kitchen. 

The servant girl question in these hap])y times was almost wholly 
eliminated from the ])rol)]em of domestic life. The wife and daughter 
were eijual to all emergencies and the idea of delegating any jtart of 
their home duties to a menial was as unnatural to them as it was pri-ju- 
dicial to the family finances. 

At certain seasons the farmer's life was indeed a busy one, bringing 
him at five o'clock in the morning to the work of feeding his stock and 
pre])aring for the work of the day. At six or before, breakfast was in 
readiness, and before seven he was at the axe, scythe, or plow, and after 
ten or twelve hours in the field there still remained the chores and even- 
intr work in the barn. 



•■^f> HISTOKV OF BEKGEX COTNTV 

The farmer's wifes and daug-hters did their household work 
thoroughly. Cleanliness was the almost invariable rule and the tables 
and floors even in the kitchen must on at least cme day of each week be. 
made spotless by soap and brush. In addition to regular indoor work 
including- all the work of the dairy, they were ready to help in any out- 
door emergency. But for their cheerful presence and help many a load of 
waiting- hay safely housed would have been injured by the approaching 
afternoon shower or ruined by the coming storm. 

The man doing faithful and valuable work for his employer expected 
to sit down with the latter to his usual meals, aud it was not expected 
that either would lose his self-respect or forfeit the respect of the other. 

At these meals if an outer garment was uncomfortable or cvunber- 
some, it was simply discarded on common sense principles 

At the table the knife or fork was brought into requisition according 
as either seemed best adapted to the work to be done. If the morsel of 
pumpkin pie was considered to be in less danger on the knife while being 
conveyed to its intended destination, the pie was g-iven the benefit of the 
theory and the onlookers were never known to have received a hopeless 
or dangerous shock. 

The country district schoolhouse was usually about eighteen feet 
square, and painted red if painted at all. It was usually built at the 
intersection of two roads, as near the corner as possible, or in the edge 
of a woods and as near as possible in many cases to a pond of stagnant 
water. This latter plan has not been altogether given up at the present 
time judging from recent occurrences. The school furniture was not 
luxurious. The desks were arranged on three sides of the room with 
their backs permanently fastened to the wall and the long scats over 
which both girls and boys had to climb were made of slabs. 

The curriculum of study was not especially comprehensive. It usu- 
ally comprised spelling, reading, writing and "ciphering." Occasion- 
ally a little grammar was thrown in by way of ornamentation. 

The teacher's salary varied from fifteen to twenty-five dcdlars a 
month. Under the salary first name he was expected to "broad around'- 
through the district in the more substantial or liberal families, changing 
his boarding place about every two weeks. If the pedagogue was old, 
conservative, and stern, this arrangement was very unpopular with the 
children. If young, sympathetic and socially inclined, these changes of 
boarding places were anticipated with the keenest pleasure. 

Of the moral and religious condition of the valley community a half 
century ago it may be said that it was fully up to the average standard. 

The churches were simply furnished, poorly ventilated, and imper- 
fectly heated. Notwithstanding, on Sabbath mornings the roads leading 
to the churches were dotted with vehicles and predestrians from miles 
around. Stormy weather was not considered a valid excuse for absence 
from church. 



IIISTOKV OK BKUC.KN COUNTY 37 

TliL' vehicles were of every description. Not a few were' the farm 
wagons which conveyed the siiri)lus ])r(i(hicts to market. Some of the 
worshipers came on horseback. 

It was an old time habit to reach church early. The horses having 
lieen hitched the worshipers collected in groups under the trees or about 
the church doors where greetings all around were in order and inipiirics 
made about absent relatives and acquaintances. 

It cannot be denied that the state of crops, the condition of the mar- 
kets, and the aspect of jxilitics were occasional features of these peculiar 
gatherings. 

A voluntary or paid choir was an institution unknown in these 
churches fifty years ago. The chorister a professing member receiving 
and holding his position by the formal action of the officers, read all the 
verses of the first hymn usually one of his own selection, then led the 
singing in a slow and sometimes nasal tone. Before the first line was 
finished the discovery was not unfrequently made the line was pitched 
several notes too high or low, when of course a fresh start became 
necessary. This naturally diverted attention somewhat from the 
sentiment of the sacred poem usually by Watts, Dodridge or Toplady, 
but the system had its compensating advantage by rendering impossible 
the complications incident to the modern methods. 

Of instumental music it may be said that any attempt to introduce 
it fifty years ago would have been regarded as an innovation incompat- 
ible with religious orthodoxy or church harmony. 

The dutj' of reading the Scripture selections devolved upon the 
chorister called also the " voorleeser " or head reader. This exercise 
was grave, measured and slow, with inflections not always thoughtless. 

The prayers were earnest, fervent and loud. The sermons long, 
doctrinal and of numerous headings. They were rarely delivered from 
notes. Written sermons being regarded with disfavor and not considered 
edifying. 



CHAPTER VIII. 
CIVIL ORGANIZATION OF THE COUNTY oF BERGEN 

.Ki-(pin the Hi.storv of Bi>rf,''fii and Passaic Counticsi. 



In Ueceml)er, 1(>82. the Asscmbl}- <>f East Jersey passed an act divid- 
ing- the province into four counties, viz. : Bergen, Essex, Middlesex, and 
Monmouth. * Bergen included all the settlements between the Hudson 
and Hackensack Rivers, and extended to the northern boundary of the 
province. Bergen and its outlying plantations comprised about sixt}- 
thousand acres of land. In the act of January 21, 1700, "for determin- 
ing the bounds of the several counties," those of Bergen were extended 
as follows : "Beginning at Constable's Hook, so along the bay and Hud- 
son's River to the partition point between New Jersey and the province 
of New York; along this line and the line between East and West 
Jersey t to the Pequaneck River ; down the Pequaneck and Passaic 
Rivers to the sound ; and so following the sound to Constable's Hook, 
the place of beginning." 

In 16')3 the counties were divided into townships. But those of 
Bergen County — viz : the townships of Bergen and Hackensack — had 
existed for many j'ears and been organized municipalities, the former 
under the Dutch government of the New Netherlands, + and the latter 
vuider the proprietary government of East Jersey, No court existed at 
Hackensack in 1682. Smith says, in his "History of New Jersey," under 
(late of this vear : "The plantations on both sides of the Neck, as also 
those at Hackensack, were under the jurisdiction of Bergen Town, situ- 
ated about the middle of the Neck." The act of organization established 
the countv courts at Bergen, where they remained until the enlargement 
of the county in 1709. 

'Bergen, in 1680, is thus described by George Scott, of Edinburg, who 
pultlished a book entitled "The Model of the Government of the Prov- 
ince of East Jersey in America :" 

"Hero is a Town Court held by Select Men or Overseers, who used to be four or 
nmre as they please to choose annually to try small causes, as in all the rest of the 
Towns; and two Courts of Sessions in the year, from which, if the cause 
e.xceed twenty pounds, they may appeal to the Governor and Council and Court of 
Deputies in their Assembly, who meet once a year. The town is compact, and hath 
lieen fortified against the Indians. There are not above seventy families in it. The 
acres taken up by the town may be about 10,000, and for the Out Plantations, 50,000, 
and the number of Inhabitants are computed to be 350, but many more abroad. The 
111 order to raise fifty pounds, the le^isK^lure convened in lfi^:t laid assessments to be raised in 
Uie four counties as follows : Berfren, All; Middlesex, iUl ; Essex, i:i4; Monmuuth, fl'i. 

In U.'.M the sum of jClt Us. 'id. was .issessed for IJergen County ; JSerjfen. £7 '.is. d., Hackensack. 
i.^ is>. 'Id. 

T Tile Tine between East and West Jersey, liere referred to. is not the line finally adopted and 
l.nown as the Lawrence line, which was run by John Lawrencein Septemberand October, 174;'.. It was 
tile compromise line agreed upon between Governors Coxe and Barclay in 1082, which ran a little north 
ol .Morristown to the Passaic River ; thence up the Peiiuancck to forty-one dc<f rees of north latitude : 
iii.l ihence by a straisrht line due east to the New York Slate line. This line bain;,' afterward objected 
l4» by the East Jersey proprietors, the latter procured the runniii'r of the Lawrence line. 

■The D.ilcli iiovernnient formed no counties in N'ew .Xelherlands. 



IIISTOKY OF 1{1-;km-.I-.X CofNTV 



part of the Inhabitants which ure in this jurisdiction are Dutcli.nf wliich sonic have 
settled here upwards of forty years ag-o." 

Hackensack Villag-c, it is well known was in Essox Counlv till ITo'i, 
and only upon the enlaro;ement of Ber<,'-eu County in that year was made 
the county-seat of the same. This was done because it was a (hrivino- 
village more centrally located than any other in the enlarsred county. 

County officials in the reign of George II had to subscribe to certain 
oaths which sound strange to their descendants of these days in Repub- 
lican America. We give a list found attached to an old parchment roll 
in the clerk's oflice, dated 1755, wherein the names are subscribed in the 
following oaths: 

" Al.I.liC.IAXCli To THli Kl.NC. 

•' I do heartily and sincerelj- acknowledge, profess, testify, anil declare, in niv 
conscience, before God and the world, that our sovereiyn lord. Kiny George the 
Second, is lawful and rig-htful king of Great Britain and all other his Majesty's 
d(.niinions and countries thereunto belonging-, and I do solemnly and sincerely 
declare, and I do believe in my conscience, that the person pretendino- to be the 
Prince of Wales during- the life of the late King James, or since his decease, pre- 
tending to assume to himself the title of King of England, by the name of James 
the Third, or James the Eighth, or the full title of the King of'Great Britain, or by 
any right or title whatever to the crown of Great Britain, or any other dominions 
thereunto belonging ; and I do renounce, refuse, and abjure any and all allegiance 
or obedience to him ; and I do swear that I bear faithful and true allegiance to his 
Majesty King George the Second, and him will defend to the utmost of my 
power against all traitorous conspiracies or attempts whatsoever to be made 
against his person, crown, or dignity, and I will <lo my utmost endeavors to disclose 
and make known to his Majesty and his successors all treasons and traitorous con- 
spiracies which I shall know to be against him or them : and I do faithfully promi.se 
t(j the utmost of my power to uphold and defend the sacredness of the crown against 
him, the said James, under any title whatsoever; which succession, by an act enti- 
tled "An act for the succession of the crown and the better securing the rights and 
liberties of the subjects,' is limited to the Princess Sophia, electress and duchess 
dawager of Hanover, and the heirs of her body, being Protestants. And all these 
things I do plainly and sincerely acknowledge and swear according to the express 
words by me spoken, and according to the plain sense and understanding of the 
same, without any equivocation, mental evasion, or .secret reservation whatsoever. 
And I do make this recognition, acknowledgment, abjuration, renunciation, and 
Ijromise heartily, willingly, and truly, upon the true faith of a Christian. 

'• So help me God." 

"AhJIRATION (M- 'I'HK I'.M'vev. 

"I do swear that I do from my heart abhor, detest, and abjure as impious and 
heretical that damnable doctrine and position that princes excommunicate 1 by the 
Pope or any authority of the See of Rome may be deposed or unu-dercd by their sub- 
jects or any- other Catholics ; and I do promise that no foreign prince, person, jire- 
late, or potentate shall or ought to take any jurisdiction, superiority, pre-eminence, 
or authority, either ecclesiastical or civil, within the realm of (ireat Britain. 

■' So help me God. 

"William Kingsland, Arent Schuyler. Johannes Van Houten. Michael Vree- 
landt [his(M. V.) mark], John Cardan, Isaac Kingsland, Jost Van Boskirk. Walingh 
Van Winkel, Johannes Bougart, Philip Schuyler, Jan Van Orden, Jacobus Wyn- 
koop, Pieter Bogert, (Jeorge Keyorse, Jr., Riieletf Van Der render, Theunis Day, 
Siimm Vreeland, Albert Zabriskie, Jacobus Van Buskirk, Abraham Leydecker, 
Jacob Home |his (X) mark]. Theodore Vallou, Robert Van Houten. Helmage Van 
Home, Jacob Van Nostrand, Jr. ]his (Cl mark], Ivukc Reyerse, Albert Berdan, 
Jacob Sitson, Ardsen Kersoris, Garret HoUcnbeck, John Schuyler, William J. Kint'-s- 
laiul, Jacob, his son, Isaac Kingsland, Jacob Van Buskirk, Helmage Van Houte, 
.\braham (iouveuier, Isaac .Schuyler. Jacobus Van Winkel. Johannes Vreelandt |lus 
iJ.V.) mark], George Vreelandt,' Jan Terhuyn, Hendrick Doreunis. Johannes Rey- 
erse. Johannes Bougart, Pieter Demarest, Sorens Jan Van Buskirk, David Van Bus- 
kirk, Henry Van Dalinda. Cornelius Wynkoop. Roelef \'an Bouten, Derick Cuyper, 
George Reyerse. Johannes Post, Rejof Lvndaker. .*\braham Ackerman. Michael 
Xoorland ]iiis CM.) mark]. David Demarest.' Timothy Ward, Henry Van De Linda. 
Jacoben Wyckoff. Pieter Post. David Terhuyn. Sanniel Bogert. James Hoard. 



40 UISTOKV Ol- BERGEX COUXTV 

Peter Schuyler, John Berdan. Jacob Mag-el, Johannes Van Houten, Johannes Wag-- 
ner [his (V.W.) mark], Roelef Westervelt, Hendrick Yeshopp, Abraham Dirick |his 
(A. D.) mark], Dirick Guysen. Peter Marsetin. Jansen Post. Jacobus Buck. Rej-nier 
V. (iiere. Timothy Moore, Jr., Jacob Mead, Johannes Reyerse, Dirick Cuyper. 
Samuel Moore, Jacob Dobson, Cornelius Bog^ert, Housens Van Biiskirk, Casparus 
Schuyler, Simon Juland, William Van Emburg-h, Johannes Demarest, Ephanus Van 
Home, Wabigh Van Buskirk, Peter Bog^ert. Rydsley Jecken, Jacobus Jeter, Isaac 
Kingsland. 

■■Qualitied as Vendue master this 22d May. 1755, before me. '*■ 

John .Scihylek." 

*Thiii piDbaWy refers lo the last person named. Is.iac Kiiiifsland. The followin(r note fron] the 
records will throw some li^hl upon the office of "vendue master :" 

" It IK ordered by the Board of Justices and Freebtdders of the County of Bergen that Jacob Titshort 
shall be vendue master to sell armsand accoutrements, and to receive for his trouble (. pence per pound. 

"Oct. 4. l7o;i." 

These were arms and accoutrements used in the French war. They were s(»ki at the court-house in 
Hackensack on Monday, Oct. 17, 17f,:!. 



CHAPTER IX. 
CIVIL LIST OF BERCtEN COUNTY. 



At the hoad of this list wc give the buard of justices and freeholders 
from 1715 — the date of the earliest records to be found — to \~')4, when 
the justices ceased to act in the board with the freeholders, and the 
board from that time forward was composed only of the latter. The 
freeholders will be found named, so far as data could be obtained, in 
their respective town histories : 

jrSTICKS AMI l-KEEHOLDERS. 

I7I.5. Justices. Thomas Lawrence. George Rversoii, John Berdan. Martin Powlson. 
Freeholaers, John Fla^;-"-, Kyer Ryer-;on, Riitt Van Home. Cornelius Blinkerhof, 

V-i^icholas Lazier. John Bogart. l7lb. Justices, David Provost, Thomas Lawrence, 
Thomas Van Buskirk, George Ryerson, John Flagg. David Demarest. Freeholders, 
Hendrick Cooper. Cor. elius Blinkerhof, Miholes Lasire. Jacob Blinkerhof, Ryer 
Kyerson, David Danjelse. Peter Garretson. Cornelius Van Vorst, John Van Houte, 
John DeMott, John Huyler, Isaac Van Der Beck, Jr., Arent .Schuyler, Jacob Berdan, 
Abraham Haring. Abraham G. Haring. 1717, Justices. David Provost, Thos. Law- 
rence, Thos. Van Buskirk. Geo. Ryer.son. Jno. Flagg. Freeholders. Andries Van Bus- 
kirk, Riilt Van Home, Jacob Bantaw, Jacobus Blinkerhof, Dsrvid Ackerman, Harp Gar- 
rabrantse, Peter Garretson, Thos. Garretson. I72O, Justices, David Provost, Thos. 
Lawrence. Thomas Van Buskirk, George Ryerson. John Berdan. Freeholders. David 
Ackerman, Lucas Kinstud. Lawrence Van Buskirk. Rutt Van Home, Ruelef Bogert. 
Roelef Westervelt. 1721, Justices. Thomas Lawrence. Thomas Van Buskirk. Geo. 
Ryerson. John Berdan. John Flagg. Freeholders. Hendrick Cooper, Kutt Van 
Home, Charles Lazier. David Demarest. Michael Van Winkle. David Ackerman. 
William Flagg, Arent Turce. 1722. Justices, Thomas Lawrence. Thomas Van Bus- 
kirk, George Ryerson. John Flagg. Freeholders. Hendrick Cooper, Garret Tury- 
ance, David Demarest. Andriese Van (Jrden, Thomas Fredrickson, Johannes Nefie, 

♦ Johannes Walingson. 1723. Justices, Thomas Lawrence. Thomas Van Buskirk. 
George Ryerson, John Berdan, John Flag^g, Wander Deadrick. Freeh(jlders. John 
Wright, iigbert Ackerson. Andriese Van (Jrden, William Dey, Cornelius Blinkerhof, 
David Danjelson, John H(jpper, Peter Tebou. 1724, Justices, Thomas Lawrence, 
Thomas Van Buskirk. John Berdan. Ryer Rverson. P'reeholders, Philip Schuyler. 
Garrett Garretsmi, Martin Powlson. John Loats. Cornelius Blinkerhof, Johannes 
Garret.s'on, Johannes Ackerman. 1725, Justices, Thomas Van Buskirk. Isaac Van 
Geren, John Berdan. Freeholders, Philip Schuyler. Garret Garretson, Martin 
Powl.son, John Loats, Cornelius Blinkerhof, Johannes (iarretson, Jrihannes Acker- 
man. 1/26, Justices. Thomas Van Buskirk, Thomas Lawrence, Isaac Van Gesen. 
John Berdan. Thomas Oldwater. Freeholders. Cornelius Blinkerhof, Johannes Van 
Wagen, John Bogert, Jacobus Blinkerhof, Michael Van Winkle, Egbert Ackerman, 
Johannes (iarretson. 1 727, Justices, Thomas Van Buskirk, John Berdan, George 
Ryerson. Freeholders, Henry Brockholst, Derrick Barentson, John Guest, Egbert 
Ackerman. Claes Lazier, John Bogert, Johannes Garretson, Cornelius Blinkerhof. 
I72K, Justices, Thomas Van Buskirk, (ieorge Ryenson, Isaac Van Geren, Ryer Ryer- 
son. Freeholders, Philip Schuyler, Derrick Barentson, Abraham Ackerman, Tury 
Westervelt, Johannes Van Wagene, Claes Lazier. John Zabriskie. I729, Justices, 
Thomas Van Buskirk. Thomas Lawrence, Isaac Van tiesen. Freeholdsrs, Mathias 
De Mott. Hendrick Kuyper, Johannes Van Wagene. John Zabriskie, Arie Banta, 
Hendrick Van Der Linde. Egbert Ackerman. l73(). Justices, Thomas Van Buskirk, 
I.saac Van (iesen. Thomas Oldwater, (Jeorge Ryer.son, Roelef Van H<iuten. Free- 
holders. Hendrick K. Kuyfer, Corneleius Blinkerhof, Arie Banta. Derrick Van 
Houte, Derrick Blinkerhof, Hendrick V^an Der Linde. 1731, Justices, William Pro- 
voost, George Ryerson, Isaac Van (ie.scn, Ryer Ryerson, John Flagg, Henry Van 
Der Linde. Derrick Kuyper. Mathias De Mott. Richard Edsall, Benjamin Demarest. 
Freeholders, Hery Van Der Linde, Hendrick Kuyper, Cornelius Blinkerhof, Arie 
Banta, Thomas Fredericks. I732, Justices. William Prov<jost, Ryer Ryerson, Henry 
Van Der Linde, Benjamin Demarest, Derrick Kuyper. Freeholders, Egbert Acker- 
man, Hendrick Kuyper. Hendrick Van Winkle, Jacob Hendrickse Banta.John Chris- 
tian. I733, Justices, William Provoost, George Ryerson, Ryer Ryerson, Henry Van 
Der Linde, Derrick Kuyper, Benjamin Demarest, Mathias Dc Mott. Freeholders. 



42 . HISTOKV Ol- BEKC.EX COrXTY 

John Rmiiine, Reynier Van Gesen, Hendrick Kuyper, Martin Powlson. Jan Duryea, 
Hendrick Van Winkle. Johannes Garretse, Garret (iarretse. I734, Justices, William 
Pro\ oo.st. David Provoiist, Isaac Van Gesen. Freeholders. Martin Powlson, Jacob 
Hey, John Roniine, Rynier Van Gesen, Philip S-huyler, John Garietson, Henry 
Cooper. Henry Van Winkle. IjoS, Justices. William Provoost, David. Provoost. 
Henry Van Der Linda, Poulus Van Der Beck. Freeholders, Martin Powlson, Yost 
Zabriskie, Derrick Dey, John Garretson. John Van Orden, John Van Home, Henry 
Van Winkle. Garret Hopper. 173b, Justices, William Provoost, John Flaffg. David 
Provoorst, Paul Van Der Beck. Freeholders. John Garretson, Yost Zabriskie, 
Jacob Day, John Van Home, Henry Van Winkle. Derrick Dey. 1737, Justices. 
William Provoost, David Provoost, Paul Van Der Beck, Henry Van Der Lindie 
James Duncan. Freeholders, John Garretson. Jacob Dey. John Post. Garret Van 
enbeck, Eden Sipp, John Van Home, Egbert Aekerm^-n. 1/38. Justices. David De- 
marest. Paul Van Der Beck. Henry Van Der Linda. James Duncan. Benjamin De- 
marest. Garrett Halenbeck. Freeholders. John Romine, Cornelius Wynkoop, Henry 
Kipp, Arie Siebe Banta, Jacobus Pick. 1/4^., Justices, Paul Van Der Beck, John 
Berdan, jacobus Bertholf. Freeholders, Michael Van Winkle, Jacob Dey, Derrick 
Dey, Rynier Van Gesen, John Duryea. Derrick Van Gesen. I742, Justices, David 
Provoost; Paul Van Der Beck, Henry Van Der Beck, Henry Van Der Linde. Free- 
holders, Cornelius Van Hoss, Derrick De_v, Derrick Van Gesen, Cornelius Lydeker, 
Cornelius Wynkoop, Michael Vreeland, Jacobus Blinkerho.'. John Duryea, Cornelius 
Van Horst, John Van Horn. Derrick Van Gesen. Jacob Oldwater. Jactibus Bertholf. 
Rynier Van Ge.sen, Jacobus B^tholfV 1743, Justices, Paul Van Der Beck. Henry 
Van DerLin :le. John Berdan. Freeholders, Luke Ryerson, Garret Garretse, Jacobus. 
■ Bertholf, Cornelius Van Horst, Cornelius Wynkoop, Cornelius Leydeker. 1-44. 
Justices. David Demarest, Hendrick Van Der Linde, Cornelius Wynkoop. Free- 
holders, Jacobus Bertholf;.- Cornelius Leydeker, Jacobus Blinkerhof. Abraham 
Ackerman, Garret Garretson, Luke Ryerson. Cornelius Van Horst, Derrick Cadmus. 
1745, Justices. Hendrick Van Der Linde, Abraham Ackerman, Lawrence Van Bus- 
kirk. Freeholders, Jacobus Blinkerhof, John Berdan. Cornelius Leydeker. Derrick 
Dey. Garret Garretson. Derrick Cadmus. Cornelius Van Vorst. I746. Justices, Gar- 
ret Halenbeck, John Vad Norde, Derrick Leydeker, John Bog-ert. Freeholders. 
Derrick Cadmus, Cornelius Van Vorst. Jacobus Blinkerhof. Cornelius Lej'deker, 
Derrick Dey. Garret Garretson, Jacob Bertholf.-. 174/, Justices, Derrick Kuyper, 
Garret Halenbeck, Jacob Oldwater. Freeholders, Derrick Dey, Jacobus Blinkerhof. 
Cornelius Van Vorst. John Van Home, Cornelius Leydeker, Gairet Garretson. 
Jacobus Bertholf( John JJerdan. 1748, Justices, Derrick Kuyper, Garret Halenbe-k, 
Jacob Titsort. Freeholders, Jacobus Bertholf ^Jacobus Blinkerhof, John Berdan, 
John Van Horn, Derrick Dej-, Garret Garret.son, Cornelius Van Vorst. 1749. Jus- 
tices, Jacobus Peck, Jacob Titsort, Garret Halenbeck. 1750. Justices, Georg-e 
Ryerson. Derrick Kuyper, Garret Halenbeck, Jacobus Peck. Freeholders. John 
Van Horn. John Durie. Cornelius Van Vorst. Cornelius Leydecker, Derrick Geisen, 
Ciarret Van Waj>ene. lyJl. Justices, Derrick Kuyper. Reynier Van Geisen, Abra- 
ham Van Buskirk. Freeholders, John Van Horn, Cornelius Van Vorst, Cornelius 
Leydecker. John Darje (Duryea?). Derrick Van Geisen. Garret Van Wagene, Jacob 
Titsort, John Zabriskie. 1-52. Justices. Derrick Kuyper. Jacobus Peck. Jacob Tit- 
■sort. Freeholders, Isaac Kingslarid. Garret Garretse, Hendrick Van Winkle, Der- 
rick Van Gei.sen, John Van Horn, Johannes Bogert, Lawrence Van Buskirk. 1753, 
Justices, Jacobus Peck, .Samuel Moore, Reynier Van Geisen. Freeholders, Garret 
Garretse, Derrick Van Geisen, Isaac Kingsland, Cornelius Leydocker, Barent Cool, 
Hendrick Van Winkle, John Van Horn. 1754, Justices, Jacobus Peck, Jacob Tit- 
sort, Samuel Moore. Freeholders, Peter Zabriskie, Hendrick Van Geisen, Barent 
Cool, Cornelius Leydocker, John Van Horn, George Vreeland, Derrick Van 
Gei.sen. 1755. Justices, Jacobus Peck, John Demarest, Jacob Titsort. Freeholders. 
Peter Zabriskie. Jacob Oldwater, John Van Horn, George Vreeland, Derrick Van 
Geisen. Turja Pieterse. Lawrence Van Bu.skirk, Johannes Bogert. 1756. Justices, 
Lawrence Van Buskirk. Jacobus Peck. Johannes Demarest. Freeholders, John 
Van Horn, Hendrick Kuyper, Jacob Oldwater, Lawrence Ackerman, Barent Cool. 
Cornelius Leydocker, Turja Pieterse. Derrick Van Geisen. 1/57, Justices, Jacobus 
Peck, Lawrence Van Buskirk, Johannes Demarest. Freeholders, Cornelius Ley- 
docker, Barent Cool, John Van Horn, Hendrick Kuyper, Lawrence Ackerman, Jacob 
Oldwater, Turie Pieter.se, Derrick Van Geisen. 1758. Justices, Jacobus Peck, Rey- 
nier Van (Jei.sen. Lawrence Van Bu.skirk. Freeholders, Jacob Oldwater, Lawrence 
Ackerman, Henarick Kuyper, Cornelius Leydocker, Michael De Mott. Barent Cool. 
Theunis Dey. Derrick Van Geisen. 1759. Justices, Reynier Van Gei.sen, Jacob Tit- 
short, Johannes Demarest, Lawrence Van Buskirk. Freeholders,, Cornelius Ley- 
docker, Barent Cole, Hendrick Kuyper, Michael De Mott. Tennis Dey, Alberttis 
Terhune. John Zabriskie. I760. Justices. Reynier Van Geisen. Lawrence Van 
Buskirk, Jacob Titshort. Freeholders. Cornelius Leydocker. Barent Cole. Tennis 



HISTOKY OK HICKCIKN COCNTY 43 

Dey, Derrick Van Gei.sen, Lawrence Ackenn.in. I7iil. Justices, Jacobus Peck. Rev- 
nier Van Geisen, Lawrence \'an Ruskirk. Jacol) Titshort. Hartman Hlinkerhof. 
Daniel Harinjf, Derrick Van Geisen. Rnelcf Westervelt, Cornelius Van Vorst. Hen- 
drick Kuyper. 1762, Justices, Revnier Van Geisen, Lawrence Van Buskirk. Jacob 
Titshort. Freeholders, Derrick Van Gci.--cn, Roelef Westervelt. Peter Zabriskie. 
Lawrence Ackeruian, Hartman Rlinkerhof, Daniel Hariuf^, Cornelius Van Vorst, 
Hendrick Kuyper. 1763. Justices, Reynicr Van Geisen, Roelef Westervelt, Jacob 
Titshort. Freehnlders, Peter Eabriskie, Lawrence Ackcrnian, Jacobus Berio, Edo 
Marcelese, Michael De .\Iott, George Cadnnis, Johannes Demarest, John Duryca. 
17h4, Justices, Reynier Van Geisen, Jacob Titshort. John Berry. Freeholders, Peter 
/iabriskie, Lawrence Ackerman, Jacobus Berio, Kdo Marceles, Johannes Demarest, 
John Duryea, Michael De Mott, Toi-es Cadmus. 176.5. Justices, Lawrence Van Bus- 
kirk, Jacob Titshort, George Vreeland. Freeholders, Hendrick Blinkerhof, Cor- 
nelius Gari abrantse, Geori;e Blinkerhof, Peter Zamhriskie, John Zanibriskie, Arent 
Schuyjer, Edo Marceles. 17()6. Justices, Reynier Van Geisen, Peter Zanibriskie, 
Hendr ck Kuyper, Roelef Westervelt. Freeholders, Cornelius Van Vorst, Cornelius 
Garrabrantse, Jr., Abraham Van Buskirk, Derrick Terhiiiie. Georg-e Blinkerhof, 
John Demarest, Arent Schuyler. Edo Marceles. I767, Justic s. Reynier Van Geisen, 
Lawrence Van Bu.skirk, Jacob Titshort. Freeholders, Arent Schuyler, Edo Marce- 
lese. Abraham Van Buskirk. John Terhune. Jacob De Mott, John Demarest, Hen- 
drick Brinkerhof. 1768. Justices, Reynier Van (ieisen, Lawrence L. Van Buskirk. 
Peter Zabriskie. Freeholders. John Demarest, Jacob De Mott, Hendrick Blinker- 
hof, Cornelius (Jarrabrante, John Terhune. Edo Marcelese. 1769, Justices. Reynier 
Van (Jsisen, Peter Zabriskie, Lawrence Van Buskirk. Freeholders, John Terhune, 
Isaac Van Der Beck, Idumus Marcelese, John Ryerson, Martin Pauli.son, Jacob De 
Mott, Helmer Van Houten, Abraham Prior. 1770, Ju.stices, Reynier Van Geisen, 
Peter Zabriskie, Lawrence Van Buskirk, Roelef Westervelt, Thomas Moore. Free- 
holders, John Terhune.-'" Samuel Berry.* Hendrick Van Houten.* Abraham Prior, t 
Jacob De ;\Iott, * Mathias Roulse, }: Edo Marcelese.;; 1/71, Justices, Reynier Van 
Geisen, Lawrence Van Buskirk, John Tell, Roelef Westervelt, Thomas Moore. Free- 
holders, John Terhune, Sanniel Berry, Abraham Prior. Hendrick Kuyper. Jacob De- 
Mott, Mathias Roulse, Jacob Post, Edo Marcelese. 1772, Justices." Reynier Van 
Geisen, Peter Zabriskie, Roelef Westervelt. Freeholders, Samuel Berry,* Hendricus 
Cooper.} Albert Banta.J: Mathias" Roulese.J: Edo Marcelese,;; Hendrick Doremus.;: 
1773, Justices, Lawrence Van Buskirk, Peter Zabriskie, Roelef Westervelt. Free- 
holders, Georg-e De Mott, Mathias Roulese.J John Benson,^ Isaac Van Der Beck,* 
Nicause Terhune,"* Edo Marceles, Hendrick Doremus. Albert Ackerson,|| James 
Board. I 1774. Justices, Lawrence Van Buskirk. Peter Zabri.-vkie, Roelef W^ester- 
velt. Freeholders, Isaac Van Der Beck, Nicause Terhune, Hendrick Kuyper,f John 
Van Hornet John Benson, Yost Zabri.skie, Albert Ackerman. James Board, Edo 
Marceles, Hendrick Doremus. 1775, Justices, Lawrence Van Buskirk, Peter Zabris- 
kie, Roelef Westervelt, Thomas Moore, Abraham Montayne. Freeholders, Hen- 
drick Kuyper, John Van Home, John Benson, Marten Roulese, Isaac Van Der Beck. 
Nicause Terhune. Edo Marceles, Hendrick Doremus, Jacot)us Bertholf, Cornelius 
Lazier. 177b. Justices, Peter Zabriskie, Thomas Moore, Stephen Baldwin, Abraham 
Montayne. Freeholders, Hartman Brinkerhoif, Job Smith, John Benson, Martin 
Roulese. John Richards. Cornelius Cooper, Hendrick Dorennis, Garrabrante Van 
Houten, Garret Hopper, David Board, John Van Boskirk," Jacb Cole.* 

There is no tneetino- of the ho;iril recorded for 1777. Tlie first meet- 
ing under the State of New Jersey was held at the house of Stephen 
Bogert, at Haring's Phiin (Harrington township?). May l.^, 17Si). The 
members of the board were : 

Justices, Roelef Westervelt, Jacob Ream, .\hraluim .Vckerman. Freeholders. 
John Ryerson, Edo Marceles, David Board, Lawrence Ackerman. 

No business was transacted, except the appointment of Abraham 
Westervelt as county collector, in the place of Jacob J. Demarest. 

The next meeting was on the 12th of September. 177S, at Carrel 
Hopper's house in Paramus, the board being : 

Justices, Roelef Westervelt, Hendrick Kuyper, Abraham Ackerman. Peter Har- 
ing. Freeholders, John Ryerson, Edo Marceles, David Board, Lawrence Ackerman. 

• New BarbadoL-s. t Bc-rccii. f Hackeiisack. S Saddle River. 
I! Franklin Township, first representod in ilie board. 

• Harrin(jt<in Township first represented. 



44 HISTOKY OK BEKGEX COUNTY 

The former collector, Jacf)b J. Demarest, at this meeting rendered 
an account of ;^142 17s., being part of a tax raised in the county by order 
of the Continental Congress in 1776, and ;i{^357 8s. 9d., "received for 
the county arms sold out of the court-house at New Barbadoes." He 
also turned over the balance of the sinking fund in his hands, amount- 
ing to ^95 lis. 9d. 

Abraham Westervelt was ordered to take charge of the reord-book 
of the board. 

1779*, Justices, Hendrick Kuyper. Peter Hariiiif, Garret Lyndaker, Abraham 
Ackermaii, Jacob Terhiine. Freeholders, William Christie, David Banta. David 
Terhune. Jacob Zabriskie, Edo Marcelese, Adrian Post, David Board, Lawrence 
Ackerman. Daniel Haring-. 1780, Justices, Hendrick Kuyper. Peter Harin^f, Garret 
Leydacker, Isaac Van Der Beck. David B. Demarest, Jacob Terhune. Kreeholdera. 
William Christie, David Banta, David Terhune, Martin Ryerson, Daniel Ilarinjr. 
\yilliam Najfal, Jacob Zabriskie, Lawrence Ackerman. l'7Sl. Justices, HeTidrick 
Kuyper. Abraham Ackerman, Henry Mead, David Demarest. Freeholders. Ivaw- 
rence Ackerson, Andrew Hopper. Garret Van Houten, Peter Demarest, Jacob De- 
marest, John Kuyper. Albert Banta. l782,t Justices, Abraham Ackerman. Peter 
Harinif, Yost Beam, Henry Mead, David Demarest, John Benson. Freeholders, 
Garrebrant Van Houten. Edo Marceles. Lawrence Ackerman. Andrew Hopper, Peter 
Demarest, Th(5mas Blanch, Peter Boyert, Jacob Zabriskie, John T\:rhune, Samuel 
Demarest. 1783,j: Justices, Abraham Ackei-man, Peter Haring, Isaac Van Der Beck. 
Jacob Terhune, John Benson, David Demarest, Daniel Van Riper. Freeholder-, 
Job .Smith, M. Garrabrant. Garret Leydacker, Jost Zabriskie. Jacob Zabriskie, E lo 
Marceles, Lawrence Ackerman, Thomas Blanch, Abraham Haring. l~8-l,t Justices, 
Peter Haring, Isaac Van Der Beck, Jacob Terhune. Freeholders, Job Smith, Nich- 
olas Toers, Jost Zabriskie. Garret Leydacker. David Terhune. E;ien Merselis. John 
Mead, Lawrence Ackerman, Abraham Haring. Ij'^S.t Justices, Peter Haring. 
Jacob Beam. John Benson, Jacob Terhune, Isaac Van Der Beck, Daniel Van Reipen, 
Isaac Blanch, Isaac Van Der Beck, Jr. Freeholders, Nicholas Toers, Daniel Van 
Winkle, Jacob Zabriskie, John Berdan, Garret Leydacker, John Mauritius Goet- 
shius, David Haring, Abraham Blauvelt. I785. j; Justices. Peter Haring. Jost Beam. 
John Benson, Isaac Van Der Beck. Isaac Blanch, Garret Leydacker. Albert Van 
Voorhis. Freeholders, Nicholas Toers. Garret Van Reipen, John Cutwater, Abra- 
ham Huysman, Abraham Westervelt, Cornelius Haring, William Christie. J. Mauri- 
tius Goetshius. 1787. Justices, Peter Haring. John Benson. Isaac Blanch. Garret 
Lydecker, Jacob Terhune, Isaac Van Der Beck, Henry .Spier. Albert Van Voorhi.>. 
Freeholders, Job Smith, Cornelius Garrebrant, John Dev, Mauritius Goets;hiiis, 
Cornelius Hinsman, Garret Durvea, Abraham T. Blauvelt. I788, Justices, Peter 
Haring, Isaac Van Der Beck, Isaac Blanch, Jacob Terhune. Freeholders, Job 
Smith, Cornelius Garrebrant. J. M. Goetshius, John Dey, Peter Zabri.skie, Nicausie 
Van Voorhis, Samuel Van Zaen, George Doremus. Abraham Westervelt. Peter 
Ward, Abraham T. Blauvelt. Albert Bogert. 1789. Justices. Peter Haring, Garret 
Lydecker, Daniel Van Riper, Albert Van Voorhis, Henry Spier. Freeholders. 
Hclmigh Van Houten, Garret Van Geisen, John Dev, Albert C. Zabriskie, Samuel 
Van Zaen, George L. Ryenson, Garret Ackerman, John W. Hopper. Albert Bogert. 
Jacob Vlauvelt. 1790, Justices, Peter Haring, Jacob Terhune. Albert Van Voorhis. 
Freeholders, Garret Van Geisen, John Van Horn, Jr., Albert C. Zabriskie. Isaac 
Kipp, Nicausie Van Voorhis, Henry Kingsland, Samuel Van Zaen. George L. Rver- 
■son, John Haring, Jacob Blauvelt,' John H. Camp. 1791. Justices. Peter Haring. 
Jacob Terhune, John Cutwater, Abraham Westervelt, Daniel Van Revpe. Garret 
Lydecker, Garret Durvea. Freeholders. Garret Van Geisen. John Van Home. Nic- 
ausie Van Voorhis, Henry Kingsland, David Board, Albert Zabriskie, Isaac Kipp. 
Samuel Van Zaen, Jacob Blauvelt, John Hogan Camp. 1792. Justices, John Benson. 
Jacob Terhune, Daniel Van Revpe. Abraham Westervelt. Freeholders, Cornelius 
Van Vorst, John Van Houte, Isaac Nicoll, John I. Westervelt, Christian Zabriskie, 
Nicausie Van Voorhis, George L. Ryerson, Peter Dev, Peter Ward, Abraham De- 
marest. David Durvea. 1793, Justices. John Benson, Jacob Terhune. Abraham 
Westervelt, William Davis. Freeholders, Cornelius Van Vorst, John Van Houte. 
John Westervelt, Christian Zabriskie, George L. Ryerson, Peter Dev. Peter Ward, 
John Hagan, Abraham Demarest, David Durvea." 1794, Justices, Peter Haring. 
John Cutwater, Jacob Terhune, Abraham Westervelt. Adam Boyd. William Davis, 
Peter Dey. 

" Met this year at Pompton. 

t Met in Paraous, at the house of Capt. John Kverson. 

t Met at the house of Archibald Campbell, in New Barbadoes villas-e of Hackeusack;. 



HISTOKV OK BKKC.EX COUNTY 



FKEEHOI.DKKS OV BKKC.KN TOWNSHIP. ^ 
1794, Cornelius Van Vorst : 1794-95. John Van Houte ; :795. Garret Van Geisen ; 
1796-1K15. John Van Home ; I796, Garret Van Revlanil ; l7')7-18i 0. John Smith: 
I797. Jasper Zabriskie ; 1798-99, 1807, Garret Freeland ; ISO), Cornelius Van Vorst. 
Jr.; 18111-2, 1805-5, 1803-9, Cornelius Doremus; 1801-4, Ja^ob Van \Vd-.foiu'r; H0.1, 
Casparus Cadmus : 1804-13. Richard Cadnuis ; 1800-11. 1816, Peter Sipp ; lslO-12. 
Thomas Dickerson ; 1812, Elias Binfrer ; 1813-14. Rvnier Van Geisen ; 1814-1^. Jo'.iii 
Goodman ; 1815. James Van Buskirk ; 1816, Cornelius Van Riper; I8I7-I8, Casparus 
Prior ; 1817-18, Adrian Post; 1819-20, 1822. Casparus Prior; 1819-20. .\d-ian P)st; 
1821-26 1828-29. 1831, P.-t^r Sipp ; 1821, Stephen V.-e.-l:ind; lS22-2o, 1831, Cornelius 
,Van Winkle; 1823-25, I827, 1833-35. 1839. Hartman Van Waffoner ; 1827-28. 1830. 
1832-34, Abel I. Smith; 1829. Cornelius Van Vorst; 1830, Jacob D. Van Winkle; 
l-;32, Merselis Merselis ; 1835. Garret Vreeland ; 1836. Asa Wrisrht ; 1835. Mitchel 
Saunier; 1837, Dudley S. Greg-ory; 1837-38, Garret Sipp; 1838-39, William C. Vreeland. 
JIDGES OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS. 
Edmund W. Kintcslaiid 1789. Petrus Haring- '89, Garret Lydecker '89. Daniel 
Van Reyan '90, Petrus Haring '91, John Benson '91, Jacob Terhune '97. William 
Colfax 1800, John Cutwater I'tOO, Abraham Westervelt 1800, William Davis I8OI1. 
Abraham Rverson 1800. Martin Rverson 1800. John Hipper 1801. Daniel Van Rvan 
1801. Adam Boyd 1803. Isaac Nicoll 1803. BenjaraTn Rlacklidii^e 1803, Henry Van Dal- 
som 1803, Lewis Moses 1804. Jacob Terhune 1804. Garret Durie 1804. Mirtin I. Rver- 
son 1805, Abraham Westervelt 1805. David P. Haring- 1805, Adam Bovd 1 05, Abra- 
ham Rverson 1805. John Hopper 1805. William Colfax 1803. Dmiel Van R-van 180). 
William Davis 1806. Samuel Reach 1807. B-njamin Blacklidi^e 1803. John' Cassidv 

1808, John Westervelt 1808, Peter Ward 1808, Jacob C. Terhune 1809. Lewis Moore 

1809. Garret Durie 1809, Martin I. Rverson 1809, John Cutwater '10. David P. Har- 
ing '10. Abraham Westervelt '10, Garret Van Houten '11, John A. Berrv '11, Daniel 
Van Reyan '11, John D. Haring '12, Christian Zabriskie '12, Elias Brevoort '12. 
Dower Westervelt '12, Cornelius Merselis '12. John Al. Voorhis '12. John Hopper '12. 
William Colfax '12. Jacob C. Terhune '13, Adam Boyd '13, Jacob Banter '13. Jo'm 
Westervelt '13. Lewis Moore '14. Jacob C. Terhune '14. Martin I. Rverson '14. Wil- 
liam Colfax '14, John T. Banta '15, R. H. Haring 15, Simon Mead '15, Garret Van 
Houten '16, Garret Durie '16, John D. Haring '17, John Cutwater '17, Christian Za- 
t)riskie 'I7, Elias Brevoort '17, John Al. Voorhis 'I7, Dower Westervelt '17, John 
Hi2pe,-j'17, Adam B >vd '18, Peter Sipp '18, Cornelius Van Winkle '19, Cornelius 
Merselis '19, Henrv W.' Kingsland '19. Jacob Banta '19, William Colfax '20, John T. 
Banta '20, Garret Van Houten '21, John D. Haring '21, Peter I. Terhune '21, David 
I. Christie '21. Dower Westervelt '21. John Cutwater '21. Elias Brevoort '21. Cornel- 
ius Van Winkle '21. Christian Zabriskie '21. John Al. Voorhis '21. Henry B. Ha-er- 
man '22, John A. Westervelt '22, Adam Boyd '22, Charles Board '22, John Cassidv 
'23. Peter Sipp '23, Jacob Banta '2-,. Henry W. Kingslani "23. Garret P. Hopper '2t, 
David I. Christie '24. Garret Ackerson '25. Garret Van Houten '25. Marcus B. Doug- 
lass '25. William Colfax '26. Christian Zabriskie '26. John D. Harinar '26. Peter I. 
Terhune '26. Nathan-el Board '26; John Al. Voorhi-i'26. Henry B. Hagerman '27, 
Albert G Doremus '27, John D. Groot "27, Adam Bjvl '27, John A. Westervelt '27. 
Cornelius Van Winkle '27, J. Wells '27. Charles Board '27. Henry W. Kingsland '28, 
Pete'- 1. Terhune '2i. John Cassidv '28, John A, Berry '28, Peter Sipp '28. Cornelius 
Van Winkle '29. Herr*- B. Banta''29. Richard Ackerman '29. Garret P. Hjpper '19, 
Jf>hn G. Ackerman '30. Charles Kinsey '30, Peter D. Westervelt '30, Girret Van 
Houten '30, Garret Ackerson '30. Mir:us B. Douglass '30. James R. Mullanv '30, 
Cornelius Van Winkle '30. William Colfax '31. Perriguin Sandford '31. Peter I. Ter- 
hune '31. Nathaniel Board '31, John Al Voorhis '31. A lam Bovd '32. Ch-^rles Board 
J. Wells '32. Henrv B. Hagerman '3i. William H. Rathbone '3?. Albert G Doremus 
'M. John De Groot 'i3>. John A. Westervelt '83. Albert Van Beuren '33. Samuel H. 
Berrv '3.^, John Cassidv '33, C. B. Zabriskie '33, Peter Sipp ':'ji. Cornelius I. Wester- 
velt '33, John H. Zabriskie '33, David H. Keen '.«, Davifi D. Van Bus.sum -ii. Cor- 
nelius Van Winkle '34, Garret P. Hopper '34, John H. Hopper '54, Joseph Post '34, 
Thomas M. Gahagan '34, William Jenner '34, Henrv I. Spear '35, Jacob Berdan '35, 
Cornelius Van Revpen '35, Charles Kinsey '35, (iarret Ackerson '35, Francis Price 
•3(1, William Colfax '36, Perreguin Sandford '36, Peter I. Terhune '37. Stephen H. 
Sutkins '37. Peter I. Ackerman '37. Abraham Westervelt '37. Chandler Dayton '37. 
Andrew H. Hopper '37. Martin Van Houten '37, Henrv W. Kingsland '37, John A. 
Berrv '.^7. David~L Christie '38. John R. Hlauvclt '38. William P. Rathbone '38. 
Henrv H. Banta '38, H. Southmavd '38, Cornelius Van Winkle '.W, Peter Sipp '39, 
<Je(^rge C. De Kav '39, Robert S. Gould '40, Charles Kinsey '40, Abraham Wester- 
velt '40, (ieorge Zabriskie '41, Henry H. Hagerman '41, Albert G. Doremus '42, An- 

» This list ciituaiiis the- names and years nf service of llie chosen freeholders of IJerircn town- 
ship, which became the county of Hudson in l.s4ll. They aret'iven f|-<ini the clo^e of the above list 
'17!'4i until the township ceased to exist as such. 



4() HISTOKV or BEKGEX COUNTY 

drew H. Hopper '42. Abraham Westervelt '43, John A. Blauvelt '43, David I. Chris- 
tie '43, Abraham I. Ackerman '43, Peter I. Ackerman '43, Henry H. Banta '43, Mar- 
fin Van Houten, Jr. '43, Samuel H. Kerry '43, Abraham Carlock '43, John G. Acker- 
man '43, Peter I). Westervelt '43, Garret Ackerson "43, Isaac I. Haring' '43. Peter I. 
Terhune '43, Abraham J. Terhune '43, James Van Houten '43, John H. Hopper '43, 
David D. Van Hnssnm '43, Garret P. Hopper '43, Joseph Post '43, Garret A. Za- 
briskie '44. Christian De Baun '44. John H. Zabriskie '44, Stephen Berdan "44, Gar- 
ret S. Demarest '45, James Rennie '4.S, James P. Demarest '46, Andrew H. Hopper 
'47, Peter I. Ackerman '48, Abraham J. Ackerman '44. Garret S. Demarest '."(1. 
Jacob I. Zabriskie '.-1. Samuel H. Berry '82. Albert J. Terhune '53, Jacob J. Brink- 
erhof '.S4, Henry H. Voorhis '57. Albert J. Terhune '58. Peter I. Ackerman '.S9, John 
H. Zabriskie '62, Albert J. Terhune '63, John R. Post '64, Thomas Gumming- '(.7. 
William Grei^: "67, Richard R. Paulison '68, Charles H. Voorhis '68, John R. Post 
'69. A^hbel Green '69, William S. Banta '72-77, Peter I. Ackerman "72-77. Nehamiali 
Millard '74-79. Garret G. Ackerson '77-82, William E. Skinner '78-83, William S. 
Banta "79-84, William Skinner '84-88. James M. Van Valen '88-98, David D. Za- 
briskie '98. 

SHEKIFFS. 

Adam Bovd 1789; William M. Betz '91 ; Albert C. Zabriskie '98; Lawrence Ack- 
erman 1800 ; Casparus Bogert l!-01 ; John T. Banta '10; Samuel H. Berrv '13 ; James 
H. Brinkerhoii '16; Samuel H. Ber'-y '19; Andrew P. Hopper '21 ; AndVew H. Hop- 
per '24; John R. Blauvelt "27; Garret Van Dien '30; John G. Ackerson '33; Jacob 
C. Terhune '36; Georg-e H. Brinkerhoff ',W ; David D. Demarest '41; Peter Van 
Pimburgh '44; John A. Hopper '47; John V. H. Terhune '50; Abraham B Haring 
'53; Cornelius L. Blauvelt '55; James J. Brinkerhoff "59; Henrv A. Hopper "62; 
John H. Banta "65 ; Jacob C. Van Blarum '68 ; David A. Pell '71 ; Garret R. Hering 
'74; David A. Pell '78; Isaac A. Hopper '82; Nicholas Demarest '87 ; Albert Bogert '92: 
James B. Brinkerhoff '84; Tennis A. Haring '89; William C. Hering '95; Jacob L. 
Van Buskirk "^W. 

SI'U'WdiVATKS. 

John A. Boyd 1803; David I. Christie "28; Abrahim (). Z-ibriskie '38; Richard 
R. Paulison '48'; Isaaj Wortendvke '68-72; John M. Knapp '77; David A. Pell "82: 
Tennis A. Haring '93; David A'. Pell '98. 

PHOSEcrxoRS OF THK i»i,f;as. 

Lewis D. Harden burg- 1836 ; Abraham O. Zabriskie '42 ; Manning M. Knapp 
'51; William S. Banta '61; Garret G. Ackerson '69; Abraham D. Canipbell '70-80; 
Peter W. Stagg '95. 

ei.RKKS. 

Peter Stoutenburg I728 ; Nemiah Wade "89: Henry Van Dalsem 1804 ; Abraham 
Westervelt '11 ; Abraham Westervelt ; Samuel H. Berry '35; John H. Berry '40 ; 
(iarret G. Ackerson. '45; Cornelius L. Blauvelt "60; Thomas W. Demarest '70 ; 
Thomas W. Demarest '75 : Samuel Taylor '80 ; Samuel Taylor '95 ; John M. Ramsey 
"95-19(10. 

JIEMKKKS OF THE CorNCII,. 

Peter Haring 1792-'96; John Outwater 1796-'1807; Peter Ward 1807: Adrian 
Post '15: John b. Haring '16; Martin I. Ryerson 'I7 ; Adrian Post '18; John D. 
Haring. '19-'22; Christian Zabriskie -'22-'24 ; Charles Board '24-"27 : Nathaniel Board 
'2-/-'?,0; Charles Board '.lO ; Jaco^) M. Ryerson '31 ; Charles Board '32-'34 ; Christian 
Zabriskie .?4-'36 ; Samuel R. Demarest '36-'38 : Francis Price '38 ; Albert G. Doremus 
'40 : John Cassedv "41-43 : John H. Zabriskie "43-'44. 
ST.\TE SEN.\TOHS. 

Richard R. Paulison 1m44-"47 : Isaac I. Haring- '47-49 ; John Van Hrufit ■ '49 : John 
Van Brunt ',50-"51 : Abraham Hopper f "51. Daniel D. Depew '.53-'56 : Thomas H. 
Haring '56-'59: Ralph S. Demarest '59-'62 ; Daniel Holsman '62- '65 ; John Y. Dater 
'65-'68; James J. Blinkerhoff '68-'7l ; Cornelius Lydecker '7l-'74 ; George Dayton 
'74-'77 ; Cornelius S. Cooper '77-'80 ; Isaac Wortendvke '80-'83 ; Ezra Miller 'bSi 
John W. Bogert '86-'89; Henry W. Winton '90-'95 ; William M. Johnson '9j-'99 
MEJIBEKS OF .\SSRMBLV. 

1792, Henry Berry, lacob Terhune, Peter Ward. '93 Peter Ward, Henry Berry, 
Adam Boyd. '94. Adam Bovd, Peter Ward, Benjamin Blackledge. '9?', Adam 
Boyd. Benjamin Blackledge, John Haring. '96, John Haring. Henrv Berry. William 
C. Kingsland. '97, Thomas Blanch. Robert Campbell, Peter Wayd. "'98, Peter 
Ward, Robert Campbell, Benjamin Blackledge. I799-I8OI. Peter Ward, Thomas 
Blanch. John Dey. 1802. Thomas Blanch. Peter Ward, Isaac Kipp. 1803, Thomas 

' To (in |)1ai:<- ..1 Isa.-ic I. Hjriuf.'. ilecc-a-;..il. 
1 T<. (ill plac- (.r .1. Vail 'inuii. ri-sitrnt-d. 



Blanch. Isaac Kipp, Martin I. KY>'rs..n. lsil4-'o5. Vru-r Ward. I',. Tin. ma- I'lan.-h. 
Adrian Post. ISdo. I>aac Kipp, Adrian l>..>t, William (.■..If.ix. l.soj, John Van 
Horn. Abraham Koreshoe, William C'nlfax. IS(l'). Adrian Post, William Cidfax.J(]hn 
Hopper. '15. Martin Van Heuten. John Ontwati-r. William Colfa.x. 'Id. Peti-rKipj). 
Jacob Banta, Cornelius Marselis. 'l-, Albert C. /iabrisUio. Cornelius Marselis. 
Jacob Banta. '1«. Casparus Prior. Nathaniel Board. John Hopper. '1'), Cornelius 
Van Winkle. Casparus Bog-ert, Seba Brinkerhoff. '20. Seba Brinkerhoff, Cornelius 
\'an Winkle. Charles Board. '21. Peter Kipj). John Westervelt. Jr.. Charles Board. 
'22. Peter Kipp. John Westervelt. Jr.. David I. Christie. '23. (iarret .\ckerson, John 
Westervelt. Jr.. David I. Christie. '24, (iarret Acker.son, John Van Wa^enen. 
Nathaniel Board. '25. Cornelius Van W'inkle. Henry B. Ha.trt'rnian. David I. Chris- 
tie. '26, Cornelius Van Winkle, Charles Kinscv, David I. Christie. '2-. David I. 
Christie, Peter I. Terhune. Cornelius D. Van Kiper. '2^, Cornelius Van Winkle. 
John Ward, Andrew P. Hopper. '.'0. Pet^r I. Terhune. Samuel R. Deniarest. John 
Ward. "31. tJaret Kipp. Andrew H. Hopper, John R. Blauvelt. '32-'3,-. J<diii .M.Cor- 
nelius, Samuel R. Demarest. Garret P. Hopper. "34. Abraham Lydecker, John H. 
Hopper, Peter I. Ackerman. '35, Abraham Lydecker. Micliael Sauiiier. John H. 
Hopper. '36, Michael Saunier, Henry Doremus. Peter R. Riif-^s. ■37-'3S. John 
Cassedy, Albert G. Lydecker, David D. Van Kussum. '40. John G. Ackerson. Albert 
J. Terhune. ■41-'42,' James I. Deniarest, John H. Zabriskie. '43-'44, William (i. 
Hopper. Jacob C. Terhune. '45-'46. John G. Banta, Jacob J. Brinkerhoff. ■47-'4s. 
John Ackerman. Jr.. Henry H. Voorhis, Jr. '49-'50, John Huyler, John H. Hopper. 
'.^1. John Huyler. John H. Zabriskie. '52-".xi. Jacob 1. Demarest. Abraham Van 
Horn. '.S4-'55. Thomas W. Demarest. Ralph S. Demarest. '56-'57. Daniel Holsman. 
Aaron H. Westervelt. '.^«, Enoch Hrinkerhoff, Andrew C. Cadmus. '59. Enoch 
Brinkerhoff, John H. Hopper. '60. Abraham Carlock, John R. Post. '61, Thomas 
Ward, John R. Post. •62-'63. Thomas Dunn English. John Y. Dater. •64-'65. Isaac 
Demarest. Abraham B. Haring-. '66. Abraham Van Emburg^. Cornelius Christie. 
Henrv G. Hering-. '68. Eben Winton, Henry G. Herinf^-. '69, Henry A. Hopper. 
Ehen Winton. '7O, Jacob G. Van Riper. Henry A. Hopper. '7I, Jacob G. Van 
Riper. Georg-e J. Hopper. '72, Georg-e J. Hopper. John J. Anderson. "7.^4, Henry 
C. Hering. John W. Bogert. '75-'76. John H. Winant, Barney N. Eredon. '77, M. 
Corson Gillam. Southv S. Parramore. '78. John A. Demarest, Southv S. Parranuire. 
'79, John A. Demarest, Oliver Drake Smith. 'S0-'81, Johti Van Bu'ssum. Elias H. 
Sisson. '84. Peter Ackerman. '8.5, Eben Winton, Peter Ackerman. '86, Eben 
Winton, John Van Bussum. '87, Anderson Bloomer, Peter Ackerman. '88. Ander- 
son Bloomer, Charles F. Harrington. '89, Abram De Ronde. Charles F. Harrington. 
"90, Abram De Ronde, George Zimmermann. "91, George H. Huyler, George Zim- 
mermann. '92, Samuel G. H. Wright, John J. Dupuv. "93, Samiiel G. H. Wright, 
John J. Dupuv. '94, Walter Dewsnap, David I). Zabriskie. '9.5, David D. Zabris- 
kie, Frederick L. Voorhees. '96, Jacob H. Ullmann. Frederick L. Voorhees. '97. 
Jacob H. Ullmann. Abram C. Hoklruui. '98, John M.Bell. Abram C. Hoklruni. 
■99, John M. Bell, Edmund W. Wakelee. 

MEMBERS OF THE I'KOVINCIAI. COXGKESS OK .NEW JEKSEV I-KOM BEKC.EN COINTV. 

June and Aug'ust. 177.5. John Fell, John Demarest, Hendrick Kuyper, Abra- 
ham Van Boskirk, Edo Marseles. October. 177-^, John Demarest, Jacobu.s P<ist, 
.\braham Van Boskirk. 

MEMBERS OE THE CONSTrriTIO.V AI. CONVE.NTIONS. 
I776, John Demarest, Jacobus Post. Ji>hn Van Boskirk. Jacob Ouackenbush. 
Daniel Isaac Brown. 1844, Abraham Westervelt, John Cassedy. ..f Bergen County; 
Elias B. D. Ogden, Andrew Parsons. 

MEMBERS OF CONGRESS. 

H<jn. Adam Boyd 1803-5; to fill vacancy 1809 and in Twelfth Congress 1811-13: 
Hon. John Huyler' 1857- .59; Hon. William Walter Phelps 187.3-75; Hon. Charles H. 
Voorhis 1879-81': Hon. William Walter Phelps 1885-86. 

(lOVERNOR. 
Hon. Rodman M. Price 1854-57. 

JISTICE OF Sri'KEME COl KT. 
Hon. Manning .M. I\ini))p 187.5-82. 



CHAPTER X. 
THE COURT AND COURT HOUSES, 

The province of East Jersey was not divided into counties until 1()S2. 
Althouj>-h the Gerieral Assembly of the whole colony by an Act jiassed on 
the 3()th of November, 1(>75 had declared Berg-en and the plantations and 
settlements in its vicinity to be a county, in name Berg-en county, 
though the Act does not say so in so many words. 

Old traditions have located a county court in the present village of 
Hackensack as far back as 1()()S. The sessions of the court were on the 
first Tuesday in March, June, September and December. By the above 
Act provision was made for the trial of small causes; also tax cases were 
to be tried by three persons without a jury having jurisdiction in all 
matters of forty shillings and under with right to appeal to either party 
iqxin the request and at his cost. Criminal jurisdiction was confined to 
the county court. 

In 17(IS Bergen county was ealtirged taking in all the territory on 
the west side of the Hackensack to the Passaic River, northward to the 
boundarv of the province and southward to Constable Hook. The vil- 
lage of Hackensack in New Barbadoes then became a part of Bergen 
county. 

The Act of l(i.S2 provided for a Supreme Court then designated as 
the "t'ourt of Common Right." This court sat at Elizabethtown, then 
capital of tlie province. 

To the end that British sovereignty should be recognized and main- 
tained, all warrants with process and attachments were issued in the 
name <>f the king of England. In Ki.SS the court for the trial of small 
causes was to be held monthly at the house of Lawrence Andriss, of 
New Hackensack. and also '' at the house of Dr. Johannes, on the Hack- 
ensack River, then in the county of Essex, and for the inhabitants of 
New Barbadoes and Acquickanick." 

Profane swearing or cursing in lt)82 cost the offender one shilling. 
One of the early laws enacted was as follows: 

"Concerning that beastly vice, drunkenness, it is hereby enacted that 
if any person found to l)e drunk he shall jiay one shilling fine for the 
first time, two shillings for the second, and for the third time, and for 
every time after, two shillings and six jience; and such as have nothing 
to pay sh;ill suffer ciiri)oreal punishment; and for those that are unruly 
and disturbers of the peace, they shall be jnit in the stocks until they are 
sober, or during tin- i)leasure of the officer in chief in the ])lace where he 
was drunk." • 

New Jersey remained partitioned into East and West Jersey under 
two co-ordinate governments until 17(12. When Oueen Anne ascended 
the throne, in 17(i2, the two ])ro\-inces were consolidated into one govern- 



lUSTOKV Ol' HICKCICN COINTV 4') 

nie-.il ;i;i(l tluis roiiiainod uikIli- royal aiiihoritv until the Kt'volutiou of 
177:). The Ciovcriior and (.'oiincil were emixiwerod to ereet. constitute 
and establish such courts as they should deem proper; and to a])point 
and to commission judy-es and other oflici'rs without limitation of time 
in these commissions. 

A Court of Chancery was early reco<>-uized. Hv an ordinance of 
Lord Cornhury, the {governor or the Lieutenant-liovernor, or any three 
of the Council, could constitute a ccmrt to hear and determine causes in 
equity, as in the English Court of Chancery. 

(iovernors Hunter and Franklin exercised chancery powers under the 
colonial system, and so that court was presided over lonji^ after the Revo- 
lution, and until a chancellor was provided for under the State constitu- 
ti<iu. Pjcclesiastical jurisdication was exercised over the province bv the 
Bishop of Fvoiidou, excepting- "the coll.atiny to beneiices, i^rantint;- 
licenses of marriage, and probate of wills," which were confined to 
the Goveriior. The Bishop „( London thus became the ordinarv and 
metropolitan of the I'rerogative Court. But surrogates were soon 
:il)pointed, but vested only with the clerical powers they now have; and 
( )rphans" Court were established in the several counties in 17S4. 'I^he 
original jurisdiction of the ordinary remained unchanged till 1820. Sur- 
rogates were appointed in joint legislative meeting till 1822, and after- 
wards were elected by the people, as at present. The Supreme Court 
always had ])lenary jurisdiction, civil and criminal. There were also 
special conmiissions for terms of the Oyer and Terminer, Init to be held 
at the regular circuits. They were presided over, as now bv a justice of 
the Supreme C()urt and the associate judges of the Common Pleas in 
each county. Before the county org-anizations were established special 
terms of the Oyer and Terminer were sometimes ai)])ointed to fie held at 
Woodbridge, and frequently at the capital (d' tlu' ])rovince. A judge of 
the Sujireme Court and special judges were then ajjpointed tt> hold that 
court. 

In connnon with other colonies slavery came to the province of New 
Jersey at a very early day. In existence of this institution called for 
jieculiar laws, one of which was passed in the twelfth year of the reign 
of (Jueen Anne il71.>), entitled "An Act for regulating slaves." This 
Act forbade any traffic with any indian, negro or mulatto slave without 
the consent of the owner." The necessity which called for such laws 
1 volved sulisecpient enactments, manifestly very unjust to the colored 
IK-ople. 

In the minutes of the Justices and Freeholders for the county of 
liergen, in 17.^5, is found the following entry of a trial of a negro slave : 

" New Jersey, Bergen County, the 15 of August. 1735. Upon infor- 
mation made to William provoost, Kstjr that the negro man of peter 
Kipp called Jack, having beaten his sd master and threatened Several 
Times tr) murder him, his said master and his son and Also to Burn down 
his House Whereupon the Said \Vni. ])rov<iost I'".sqr Cranted a Warrant 



5t) HISTOKV OF BEKGHN COUXTV 



Directed ti) the Constable to take the said Negro Jack Into Custody and 
Was Committed by the vSaid Wm. provoost Esqr to (ioal. 

"This Is In His Majestyes Name to Will and Require you to Sum- 
monds Thre or more Justices and five principal freeholders lor Said 
County to appear at the Court House for the said County on friday 
morning at Nine of the clock. Being- the fifteenth Day of this Instant 
August to try the Negro of petre Kipp named Jack, for having Beaten 
his Said Master and Threatened several times to murder him and his son 
and Also to Burn Down his House on Wednesday the Thirteenth day of 
this Instant and in this you Are Not to fail. 

"Given Under my Hand this fourteenth Day of August In the 
Ninth Year of our Reign : 17,>5 

(sd) "William Pkovoost. 
"To David Ackeman, High Constable 

"This Is In his Majesties name to \yill and Require you to Sum- 
mond these Under Named to Appear at the Court House on Friday 
the 15 day of this Instant to Give Evidence In the Behalf of Our Lord 
the King Against the Negro of Peter Kijip called Jack & In this you are 
Not to fail. Given Under my Hand this 14 day of August, 1735 and In 
the Ninth year of our Reign. 

"To David Ackeman, High Constable. Peter Kipp, Elshe Kipp, 
Their Son, Henry Kipp, Derrech Terhune, Jacobus Housman, Isaac Kipp. 

"Nevi' Jersey, Bergen Cty. Whereas William provoost Esqr Being 
Informed that the Negro of peter Kipp Called Jack having Beaten his 
Sd Master and often times threatened the Lifes of his Sd master and his 
Son Likewise to burn his Sd Masters House and then Destroy himself on 
Wednesday the 13 day of August 1735 for which We here Under Subscrib- 
ed was Summond by the Justices to appear at the Court House of the Said 
County the 15 Day of the Sd Instant to Try the Said Negro Jack Ac- 
cording to the Direction of Act of General Assembly Entitled an Act for 
Regulating Slaves Whereupon having Duily Examined the Evidence 
According to ye direction of the Aforesaid Act found the Aforesaid 
Negro Jack Guilty of the Said Crime Alledged Against him — 

(Sd) " Wm. Provoost, Isaac Van Gesen, John Stagg, Henry Van- 
delenda, Paulies Van Derbeek, Justices, present. 

" Abraham Vack, Abraham Ackerman, Egbert Ackerman, Lawrence 
Ackerman, Garret Hoppe, Freeholders, present. 

" New Jersey, Bergen County : Att a meeting of the Justices & free- 
holders for the Trying of the Negro Man of Peter Kipp Called Jack at 
the Court House for the said County (m friday the 15 Day of August 
1735. Present the above Named Justices and freeholders, the freeholders 
Being Sworn & proceeded to Tryal. 

" David Provoost Esqr Being appointed by the justices to Prosecute 
the said Negro Man of Peter Kipp called Jack. Gentlemen I am ap- 
l)ointed by the Justices to Prosecute the Negro Man of Peter Kipp Called 
Jack for having on the 13 Day of this Instant August struck his Said 
Master Severall (Idowsi and offered to kill him With an Ax and often 



HISTOKV Ol' Hl'.K-C.lCN COINTY 51 

limes Said that he would kill liis Said Master, and Master Son, Hurn his 
Master's House and then Destroy himself Which I am Keady to Make 
Appear hv Good and Lawful Evidences that the abovesaid Negro Jack 
Is Guilty of Both Striking- his Master Several IJlows and Attempting- to 
Kill him With an Ax and Likewise of Threateninif Several times to 
Kill his Said Master and his Master's Son and Sett lire to his Masters 
House and then Destroy himself For WHiich Reason I Desire Your hon- 
ours that the Above Said Neijro May Be tryed as the Law Directs that 
the King May have Justice Done, which was (iranted by the Jus- 
tices and freeholders and Did proceed Accordingly. 

'■ THE K\-ir)i;NCKS — DICCI.AKATION. 

■• Peter Kipp Declared upon the Holy Evangelist rhat he was going 
to one of his tields with his Negro Man Jack and on the Road he Cave 
the Said Negro a Blow which at the Said Negro Risisted & fought with 
his Master, Striking him Several Blows and Afterwards taking up an Ax 
threatened to kill him his Said Master and his Son ;ind then Destroy 
himself. Upon \Vhicli his Said Master Ran away for assistance and 
somtime after he Was Tyed he Said that he would In the Night When 
his Master Slept Sett his house on tire. 

" Henry Kipp Declared Ui)oii tlu- Holy Evangelist that he being one 
of the Assistance at the Taking and Tying of the Said Negro that when 
they came to the Said Negro they found two Axes by him and after h;i v- 
ing tved him he said that when his Master Slept he would Sett his 
House a tire. 

•■Then Isaac Kipp and Jacobus huysman declared likewise with 
Henry Kipp. Then Henry Kipp declares that his father gave the negro 
a blow at which the negro resisted and fought his father: striking him 
Several blows and taking up an ax and threatening to kill him and then 
de.strov himself: and then the record proceeds as follows: Then the prisoner 
With-Drew and the justices and the freeholders proceeded. The justices 
and freeholders having taken the matter into Consideration and Did (live 
Sentence of Death Upon him as followelh: 

"That is to say that ye Said Ni'gro Jack Shall be brought from 
hence to the place from Whence ht> came, and there to Continue untill 
the 1(. day of This Instant August till Ten of TheClockof the Morning, 
and then to Be Burut Untill he Is Dead, at some Convenient ])lace on the 
Road between the Court TIous^- and Ouacksack. 

••This Is therer.>re to Will and Recpiir you to take ye Body of the 
Negro Jack Into vour Custody & See him Executed According to the 
Sentence givi ii, and for your so Doing this Shall be your Sufficient W"ar- 
rant. Given Under our hands this 1.^ day of August. In the '• Year of 
his Majesties Reign, Annoy Domini \~?>S. 

•• To PKUCI.U.S p.M<.MKKTo.\, High Sheriff of the County of Bergen, 
and signed by the Justices and Free holders, whose names are mentioned 
at the beginning of this procei'ding." 



HISTORY Of BEKGKN COTNTY 



By a l>rief analysis nf this proceediiiif it will W seen ihat when the 
negTo, Jack, was ti^oin^r to the field with his master, on Wednesday. 
Aug'iist 13, 17.>,^ ; that the master gave Jack a hlnw. He was, therefore, 
the first assailant, though, as a master, he deemed himself empowered 
to chastise his slave ; that the negro struck back, and made, in his anger, 
sundry threats ; that all the f(.)rmal proceedings were done and the matter 
disposed of Friday following, and sentence passed directing the Sheriff 
of the county to burn the negro on Saturday morning, August U). 1735. 
" til he is dead." 

On Wednesday the African offended, and on Saturday morning he 
was burned to ashes, and all this was done lawfully and under the 
British Constitution in 1735, less than a century and a half ago. 

In 1741 two negroes, charged on suspicion of having set seven barns 
on tire, were convicted and burned to death at Yellow Point, <m the east 
side of the Hackensack River, near the house of Dierech Van Horn. 
This act, as appears from the records, was frequently invoked, and con- 
tinued even down to the Revolution. During this period the stocks, the 
whipping post and the pillory, "at convenient places" in different parts 
of Bergen County, performed their part also in punishing petty crimes. 
and misdemeanors also of greater magnitude. At the Octoljer term of 
the General Quarter Sessions, sitting at Hackensack, in 17()"i, we have 
the following record, showing how the prisoner was imnished. The 
case is entitled 

"The King agst Uiuick, a Negro Man beU)nging to Mary Terhune. 
The prisoner arraigned on his Indictment pleaded guilty, and submits 
himself to the niercv of the Court. On motion of Mr. Brown for the 
Lord for judgment, the Court ordered that as in the Warrant. 
"To the Sheriff of the County of Bergen: 

"Thomas Ouack, a Negro Man, belonging to Mary Terhune. was 
this day indicted before us, (ieorge Ryerson, Rynear Van Gieson, Law- 
rence L. Van Boskirk, Peter Zabriskie, John Fell and RulilT Westervelt. 
Esqrs., His Majesty's Justices of the Peace in and for the County of 
Bergen, one whereof bin of the Ouorum of the Court of General Quarter 
Sessions of the peace, holden this dav in and for the County of Bergen. 
for leloniously stealing, taking and carrying away from the dwelling- 
house of Isaac Kipp, Junior, certain goods, and has pleaded guilty to 
his said Indict. Therefore, in His Majesty's name, you are hereby com- 
manded forthwith to take the said Negro Quack from this Bar to the 
public Whipping Post, at the Court House, and there cause the said 
Quack to receive fifteen lashes, well laid on his bare back, and from 
thence you are to take him tyed at a Cart's tail to the corner of the Lane 
opposite Renier Van (xieson, P^sqr., and then cause the said Quack to 
receive fifteen hishes more as aforesaid, and innn thence, at the Cart's 
tail, take him to the corner of the Lane opposite to J. Isaac Ryerson. 
and there cause said Quack to receive nine lashes more, in manner afore- 
said, and on Friday next, at 3 o'clock in the afternoon, you are again to 
take the s.-iid Quack to the Whipping-Post aforesaid, ;ind cause him 



IIISTOKY l)l- TiKKC.liN CorXTY -•^.i 

to roceive lifteeu lashes more, in manner aforesaid, and from thenee 
to the Street facintj Mr. William I'rovoost. and there eau ;e said 
(Juack to receive fifteen laslu-s m )re, in nruin^r a< afores:u'l, and 
from thence to the lane oi)posite to Mr. Isaac Kipp's, and cause him !o 
receive nine lashes more in manner aforesaid, and on Monday next you 
are again to take the said Oiiack to the Whipjiinn' Post aforesaid, and 
cause him to receive fifteen lashes more in manner aforesaid, and from 
thence over the Bridj^e, opposite to Mr. (leorsre Camijhell's House, and 
there cause him, said Uuack, to receive lifteen lashes more, in manner 
aforesaid, and from opposite Mr. Jacob Zahriskey's dwelliiif^-House. and 
cause the said Ouack to receive nine lashes more, in manner aforesaid, 
and the several constables of this County of Hers,^ -n are hereby com- 
manded to attend and assist you. (liven under our hands and seals this 
Twentv-fifth Day of October. Anno Domini 17()'i. 

I Signed I "George Ryerse, Peter Zabriskie, Lawrence L. \'. Bos- 
kirk. John Fell." 

Within a week the negro, in nine whii)i)ings on three several days, 
and at the whipping-post and other pul)lic places in and about the village 
of Hackensack, was scourged one hundred and seventeen lashes. It is 
said that two slaves, named Ned and Pero, in attempting to rob in the 
night, had broken a man's skull in an atrocious assault, whereby his lite 
was endangered, and on conviction they were sentenced to receive five 
hundred lashes each, one hundred lashes to be inflicted on each succeed- 
ing Saturdav till the punishment was C(miplcte. These several whip- 
pings were to be imposed in different public places in the county. One 
of the slaves survived the five hundred lashes, but the other died on the 
fourth Saturday, after having received four hundred lashes. Xo record 
of this affair has been found. It is stated, however, on information 
which is deemed reliable. The wlii].i)ing-post. stocks and pillory con- 
tinued long after the Revolution, but llir awful scenes of l)urning at the 
stake, let us hope, were too abhorrent to have been of fre.pient occur- 
rence long before 177(>. 

C()tKT-H()rs)-;s. ci.ickk's .xxn siKKcjcA'rK's oi-i-icK. 

No coui-t-house could have l)een built in Hackensack for the County 
of Bergen earlier than about 17(l'i to 171ii. then the first court-house was 
built on the (Ireen, fronting on Main Street. That structure ccmiprised 
a jail and court-house built together. It was destroyed by the British 
in 17S(I. 

The second court-house and jail were built in Vougli])ough. in the 
township of Franklin, during the Revolution, and the c.mrts were held 
there for a few years, as deliberative Justice during that stormy period 
found itself too near the British lines and British invasion in attempting 
to sit statedly at Hackensack. Of ccmrse, Ycmghpough (pronounced in 
modern times Yoppo) was only the county-seat mi interim, and until 
Justice could resume her more ancient seat in i)eace and safety at Hack- 
ensack. There was a log jail built at Youghpougli. but the courts seem 



S4 rrisTOKS' of BEKc7iiN catrNTr 



ti> havo bofii held there either in the Pond Reformed Church or even at 
private houses in the vicinity, to such judical extremities had the British 
driven us during the Kevolutixm. It is related that Noah Collington, or 
Kellingham, a Tory, was hung- near the log jail at Youghpough. He 
had been indicted for murder and robbery in this county. In attempting 
to escape in disguise across the Hudson near Fort Lee, in order to get 
within the British lines, he was cajitured near that place and brought to- 
this jail.* 

The third court-house, and first after the Revolution, was built at 
Hackensack, near Main Street, now the brick storehouse of Richard Paul 
Terhune. The land for that purpose was conveyed to the county by- 
Peter Zabriskie as grantor. His deed is dated October 27, 17S4. 

On May 18th, 1785, Peter Zabriskie executed another deed to the 
countv in consideration of eighty-two pounds lawful currency of New 
Jersey for another lot, and on May 'Jtli, 1793, deeded to the county an 
additional piece of land adjoining the east side of the Court House lot, 
four feet wide, extending the whole length of that lot. 

Two hundred pounds was ordered to be raised by county tax to build 
the Court House. Nehemiah Wade deeded the land on which the former 
Clerk's office stood, July 3d, 1786. The Clerk's ()ffice w^as built between 
1812 and 181'), a little north of the Midland Railroad, on the west side 
of the street. There it remained until 1853. 

An effort was made by the up-town people to locate the Court House 
there, but the offer by Robert Campbell was accepted, and in 1819 the 
building so familiar to the people of the county, was erected, with the 
Green in front, and the Clerk's and Surrogate's Offices near it. 

Tielman Van Vleck was the presiding judge of the first court pro- 
l)ablv ever held within the present territory of New Jersey. The early 
list of lawyers in this county down to 1776, as fully as can be obtained 
are given with their dates of admission as follows: 

Iddl, Tielman Van Vleck, admitted as attorney in 1(>6(I. 

1(>|)4 to 1678, Claes Arentse Toers, Balthazar Bayard, and William 
Pinhorne, admitted f probably ) attornevs about 16()1. The latter was 
also a merchant. 

1707, John Pinhorne, .idmitted as attorney in 1707. 

172H to 1750, David Ogden, Mr. Duane, and Mr. Lodge, admission as 
attorneys unknown. 

1750 to 1756, Rt)bert Morris and John De Hart, admission as attor- 
neys unknown. 

1756 to 17()1. Mr. Legromsie, Mr. Nicoll. and Dr. Isaac Brown, 
admission as attorneys unknown. 

Elisha Boudinot, appointed sergeant-at-law in 1792. 

Cortlandt Skinner, ajipointcd attorney-general July 10, 1754. 

tieorge Ross, Lewis ()g(len. A. Moore, and Isaac Ogden. admission 
as attorneys unknown. 

1776, John Chetwood and Abraham Ogden, admission as attorneys 
unknown. 

Sc- sli.-lch 1.11 Uk- HUl.ny .it OaUl:iiul. 



Willi.iin Pinhnrne, who oaiiio to this coiiiitrv from Eiiyhmd in ]<i7H, 
^v;^s second jiidufo of the Supreme (.lourt of New Jersey in 1704, jndg-e of 
the Berg'en County Common Pleas in 17U5, and of the Bergen Oyer and 
Terminer in 170'l, and of the Common Pleas in 17(1'). He had previously 
been judge of the Supreme Court of New Jersey, and at one time presi- 
dent i)f its Council, and commander-in-chief or (xovernor. He died in 
171'*. His son John was clerk of this county in 17(15, and was admitted 
to the bar June <>, 17(l7, and practiced in this county, and probably resided 
at Hackensack or Hoboken. His sister Martha married Roger Mompes- 
sim. who was chief justice of New York and Pennsvlvania, and in 1704 
was also chief justice of New Jersey. 



CHAPTER XI. 

ber(;en county in time of war. 

Till-: i-:i-;\"()i,u'ri()NAKv struggle. - tiiic wai': ok the rebellion. — the 

RAILROAD STRIKE. -THE WAR WITH SPAIN. 

'Pho niilitarv history of the L-ounty of Berj^en extends over the whole 
period of its OL'cupation bv the white man. Upon the arrival of the first 
settler he was obliged to place himself on the defensive, and stand ready 
for eoniliat. The Indian, of course, resented the intrusion of white men 
ui)on the domains which he considered his by right of possession, and 
enjoying the right of priority, was happy in his simple and indolent life, 
and desired no other kind of existance. The astute Dutch settler saw 
before him wealth, independence and consequently- a cause for even fight- 
ing for a name and place in the New World. After many conflicts and 
many sad disasters to both the civilized and uncivilized participants, the 
poor ignorant savage was obliged to yield to the wiser and more enlight- 
ened adversary. This was the only outcome possible in such a conflict- 
pathetic as it is to contemplate. The first Indian war having ended in 
1()4S, and a treaty of peace concluded, quiet prevailed for a time. 

It was not until 1774, the beginning of the Revolution, that a point 
was reached in the methods used by the mother country, to force the 
j)avment of ta.xes by her subjects on this side, without the privilege of 
sending representatives to look after their interests, which brought out 
the necessity for a decisive step. A military force must now be organ- 
ized to meet an enemy of equal intelligence and of greater numerical 
strength, for the purpose of defending the rights of those who had braved 
all sorts of hardships in their effort to build up homes in this country. 

Accordingly a local Committee of Safety was organized in Bergen 
county, a measure probably hastened by the closing of the port of Boston 
in the Spring of that year, ( 1774). T^^c Freeholders and people of Ber- 
gen C(_)unty held a meeting at the court house on the 25th of June and 
with Peter Zabriski*' as chairman adopted the following preamljle an<l 
resolutions : 

This meeting lieing deeply affected with the calamitous condition of 
the inhabitants of Boston in the province of Massachusetts Bay, in con- 
seiiuence of the late Act of Parliament for blocking up the port of Boston, 
and considering the alarming tendency of the Act of the British Parlia- 
ment for the purpose of raising a revenue in America. 

•• Do Resolve, 1st, That they think it their greatest happiness to live 
un<ler the government of the illustrious H<nise of Hanover, and that 
thev will steadfastly and uniformly bear true and faithful allegiance to 



HISTOKV Ol' DKKdKN COUNTY 



His Majesty Kinu; Georgo the Third undi-r tlu' onjovineiit of their eonsti- 
tutidiial riifhts and privilejfes. 

•• 2(1. That we conceive it to \>v mn in(lul)itahle pri\ ilc>^e to be taxed 
only hy our own consent, t;-iven by ourselves or by our representatives; 
and that we consider the Acts of Parliament declarative of their rig-ht 
to impose internal taxes on the subjects of America as manifest encroacli- 
ments on our naticmal rights and privileges as British subjects, and as 
inconsistent with the idea id' an American Asseml)lv or House of Repre- 
sentatives. 

".mI. That we will heartily unite with this Colonv in choosing dele- 
gate > to attend at a general congress from the several provinces of Ame- 
rica in order to consult on and determine some effectual method to be 
l>ursued for obtaining a repeal of the said Acts of Parliament, which 
appear to us evidently calculated to destroy that mutual harmony and 
dependence between (ireat Britain and hiT colonies which are the basis 
and support of both. 

■■ And we do appoint Theunis Dey. John Demarest. Peter Zabriskie, 
t'ornelius Van Vorst, and John Zabriskie, Jr., Esquires, to be a commit- 
tee for corresponding with the committees of the other counties in this 
Province, and particularly to meet with the other count}' committees at 
New Brunswick, or such other place as shall be agreed upon, in order to 
elect delegates to attend the general congress of delegates of the Ameri- 
can Colonies for the purpose aforesaid." 

After these resolutions were signed hv three hundred and twenty- 
eig-ht citizens of Bergen Countv. a local Committee of Safety was organ- 
ized of which John Fell, a devoted ])ai:ri.)t of Paratnus was made chair- 
man. Nothing of a startling n.ature, however, occurred until in 177ii 
when it became known that Lord Howe was on his way to New York. 
Lord Stirling was then in conunand of the militia in this part of Jersey 
when he made an attempt to build fortifications on the eastern side of 
he C( untv, along the Hud^(^n and also at Bergen Point opposite Staten 
Island. Three companies were now organized in Bergen County and 
joined in Battalion with three from Kssex and two from Burlington, 
while the regular militia id" IJergen was organized in one regiment. 
This order came from the Pro\incial Congress in session in Burlington '■ 
"Ordered that Cornelius A'an Vorst be Lieutenant Colonel, Richard Day' 
First Major, and John Martinius Cloetschius, Secimd Major of the battal- 
lion of foot militia in the County of Bergen." Lord Stirling, in order to 
be prepared for defending Bergen, set several hundred of the militia to 
work in the construction of roads, one from Weehawken to Hackensack 
Ferry and the other from Paulus Hook to Brown's, and before (ieneral 
Wasiiington arrived he had both these and the forts at Paulus Hook and 
Bergen Neck well underway. Ceneral Washingtim ordered the work 
to proceed at Paulus Hook, and upon its completicm was garrisimed, but 
the British were occupying Staten Island before the work could be finish- 
ed at Bergen Point. On the 4th of July 177(., General Washington 
ordered General Mercer to station live hundred men at Bergen Neck, 
and to guard the ferries over the Hackensack and Passaic Rivers, ])rom- 



58 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUN'TV 

ising to send an eng'ineer from New York on the followin<f day for the 
purpose of erecting works for the safety of those places. Fort De 
Lancev was erected at that time at a point a little below the present 
canal at Bayonne and General Wadsworth's brigade was sent to Ber- 
gen and there joined by a battalion of Jersey troops. 

The records were removed from Perth Amboy to Burlington early 
in the year of 1776 by order of the Provincial Congress. No attack was 
made by either side, nor was any active movement made, although Gen- 
eral Mercer had planned an attack, which was foiled by bad weather. 

The British were concentrating their forces, until about 30,000 men 
had gathered within the harbor and upon Staten Island. The first firing 
was by the patriots on the 12th of July, when the two British men-of- 
war the "Phoenix" and the "Rose," sailed up the habor, the first a 
vessel of forty guns and the second of twenty guns. The firing was 
from Palus Hook, but did little harm to the vessels, as their sides were 
protected by sand bags. As Lord Howe sailed up the harbor on that 
evening he was greeted with cheers and booming of cannon from the 
British, who, on the 15th of July, took possession of New York. 

Bergen was headquarters until October 5th, 1776. when Washington 
began his retreat to the Delaware. Removing first to Fort Constitution 
( now Fort Lee ), which in turn was evacuated on November 20th, leaving 
East Jersey to the enemy, who no doubt felt that they had gained a 
great victory. Lieutenant Colonel Van Buskirk, of Saddle River, who 
had joined the British, was placed in command of the post of Paulus 
Hook, while the fort at Bergen Neck was occupied almost wholly by 
"refugees." This was named Fort DeLancey, in honor of Oliver De 
I^ancev, of Westchester, who had also joined the British. 

The following account of the evacuation of Fort I^ee was written 
bv Thomas Paine, author of "The American Crisis:" 

" As I was with the troops at Fort Lee, and marched with them to 
the edge of Pennsj-lvania, I am well acquainted with many circumstances 
which those who lived at a distance knew little or nothing of. Our situ- 
ation there was exceedingly cramped, the place being on a narrow neck 
of land between the North River and Hackensack. Our force was in- 
considerable, being not one-fourth as great as Howe could bring against 
us. We had no army at hand to have relieved the garrison had we shut 
ourselves up and stood on the defense. Our ammunition, light artillery 
and the best part of our stores had been removed upon the apprehension 
that Howe would endeavor to penetrate the Jerseys, in which case Fort 
Lee could be of no use to us, for it must occur to every thinking man, 
whether in the army or not, that these kind of field-forts are only for 
temporary purposes, and last in use no longer than the enem}- directs 
his force against the particular objects which forts are raised to defend. 

" Such was our situation and condition at Fort Lee on the morning 
of the 20th of November, when an officer arrived with information that 
the enemy, with two hundred boats, had landed about seven or eight 
miles above. Major General Greene, who commanded the garrison. 



HISTORY OI- BICKOEN COUNTY 5<) 



immediately ordered them under arms, and sent an express to His Ex- 
eellencv General Washington, at the town of Ilackensaek. distant bv 
the way of the ferry six miles. Our lirst object was to secure the bridg-e 
over the Hackensack, which laid uj) the river, between the enemy and 
us — about six miles from us and three irom them. General Washinj^ton 
arrived in about three-quarters of an hour, and marched at the head of his 
troops towards the bridge, at which place I expected we should have a 
l)rush. However, they did not choose to dispute it with us, and the 
greatest part of our troops went over the bridge, the rest over the ferrv, 
except some which passed at a mill on a small creek between the bridge 
and the ferry, and made their way through some marshy ground up 
to the town of Hackensack, and there passed the riv.r. We brought off 
as much baggage as the wagons could contain, the rest was lost. The 
simple object was to bring of? the garrison and to march them on until 
they could be strengthened by the Pennsylvania or Jersey- militia, so as 
to be enabled to make a stand. We stayed four days at Newark, col- 
lected in our outposts, with some of the Jersey militia, and marched out 
twice to meet the enenn- on information of their being advancing, though 
our tumibers were greatly inferior to theirs." 

An eye-witness has given the following statement: 
"It was about dusk when the head of the troops entered Hacken- 
sack. The night was dark, cold and rainy, but I had a fair view of them 
from the light of the windows as they passed on our side of the street. 
They marched two abreast, looked ragged, some without a shoe to their 
feet, and most of them wrapped up in their blankets. Washington 
then, and for some time previous, had his headquarters at the residence 
of Mr. Peter Zabriskie, a private house, now called 'The Mansion 
House,' the supplies for the General's table being furnished b>- Mr. 
Archibald Campbell, the tavern-keeper. The next evening after the 
Americans had passed through the British encamped on the opposite 
side of the river. We cf)uld see their fires, about one hundred yards 
apart, gleaming brilliant]}- in the gloom of night, extending some dis- 
tance below the town and more than a mile up towards New Bridge. 
Washington was still at his quarters, and had with him his suite, life- 
guard, a companv of foot, a regiment of cavalry, and some soldiers from 
the rear of the army. In the morning, before the (ieneral left, he rode 
down to the dock, where the bridge now is, viewed the enemy's encamp- 
ment about ten or fifteen minutes, and then returned to Mr. Campbell's 
door and called for some wine and water. After he had drank, and Mr. 
Campbell had taken the glass from him, the latter, with tears streaming- 
down his face, said, '(ieneral, what shall I do? I have a family of 
small children and a little proi)erty here; shall I leave them?' Washing- 
ton kindly took his hand, and re])lied, 'Mr. Campbell, stay by your 
family and k-ccp iini/ra/:' then bidding him good-by, rode off. 

••About noon the next day the British tt)ok possession of the town, 
and in the afternoon the Green was covered with Hessians, a horrid, 
frightful sight to the inhabitants. There were between three and four 



f)0 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 



tlidusand, with llu-ir whiskers, brass caps and kettles or base drums. A 
part of these troops were taken prisoners two months after at Trenton." 

The British made raids in New Jersey from time to time devastat- 
int^ the county bv these foraging- expeditions. It was during one of 
these raids that Colonel Aaron Burr distinguished himself by surprising 
the enemy's men on picket duty and afterward calling upon the people 
to rally the country. His attack had so encouraged the people that they 
turned out and put themselves under his command, when the enemy im- 
mediately fled leaving the greater part of the plunder behind. 

What was called Clinton's Raid occurred in 1777, and was planned 
bv Sir Henry Clinton who divided his force into four columns, the gen- 
eral point of rendevous being New Bridge above Hackensack. One 
column, under General Campbell, entered New Jersey bj- way of Eliza- 
bethtown; one, under Captain Drummond, by Schuyler's Ferry; one, 
under General Vaug-hn, by way of Fort Lee, and the other, under Lieu- 
tenant Colonel Campbell, by way of Tappan. It was on September 12, 
the expedition set out, Clinton following, going to Schuyler's Landing 
on the Hackensack, (Dow's Ferry), and going by the Belleville turn- 
pike to Schuyler's house he found Captain Drummond with two hundred 
and fifty men. General Campbell arrived with his men during the 
night bringing the cattle they had collected by the way. The ccdumns 
met on the ISth, as before arranged. On the Kith (leneral Campbell 
marched his force over to Staten Island, from the English Neighbor- 
hood. From the people of Essex and Bergen Counties they took four 
hundred cattle, four hundred sheep, and a few horses, but they had 
eight men killed, eighteen wounded, ten missing and live taken prisoners. 

The most interesting episode in this portion of our history is the 
attempt to capture the fort at Paulus Hook by Major Henry Lee. This 
gallant and dashing officer, who had frequently been employed by 
Washington as a scout along the west bank of the Hudson, had dis- 
covered that the British fort at Paulus Hook, although a strong place, 
was negligently guarded, and he conceived the idea of its capture by a 
night march and a sudden surprise. By permission from Washington, 
Lee moved from his encampment at New Bridge about four o'clock in 
the afternoon of August IS. 1779, following what is known as the lower 
road which intersects the present Hackensack road, near the English 
Neighborhood church, having taken the precaution to send forward 
boats in charge of Captain Peyton, with instructions to have them at 
Dow's Ferry at a certain hour of the night, for the purpose of taking 
his troops over the Hackensack; he also detached patrols of horse to 
watch the communications with North River, and posted Lord Stirling 
at New Bridge to cover his retreat, if necessary. The whole movement 
was conducted with such secrecy that they arrived at the fort without 
being discovered, notwithstanding the fact that, on account of the ignor- 
ance or the treachery- of their guide, they were compelled to wander three 
hours in the woods between LTnion Hill and the fort, and the still more 
remarkable fact that they were in danger of encountering Colonel Van Bus- 



HISTOKV 01-~ Bi:k(-,KN- COl'NTY (> 1 

kirk, \vh,< had left the fi>rt at I'aulus ILx.k ahdut the time tliat Major 
Jvee started, with a fi>ree of one hundred and tliirlv men mi a r.iid to the 
Eng-Hsh Neig-hborhood. That these two forees. one of them at le.ist 
straggliii'f and flounderini>- idou a niisdireeteil course tlirouy-h the wil- 
derness and in the darkness of nijj^ht. should entirely escape each other 
seems i'lcredible. liut such is the well-attested fact. Pi'rhaps their 
,!,rettini,r lo>t and m,irchinL;- out of the direct course mav have I)een the 
very means of their escape. He this , as it niav. "Major Ijce reached 
Prior's Mill at three o'clock ..n the morninii' of the I'Hh. The dav was 
near at hand, and the tide that would till the ditch .and overflow the ro.id 
between Warren and (iro\e Streets ^ Jer--ev Citv ■ was risin-^-. Not a 
moment was to be lost. They reached the ditch at the intersection of 
Newark Avenue and Warren Street at half-past three o'clock on Thurs- 
day mornin}^. The guards were either asleep or took the a])])roachinii' 
force to be Colonel Van Busk-irk's men returnin'^ from their raid. Thev 
were not undeceived until the ;id\-ance had pluntjed into the ditch. Im- 
mediately a firiiiif beg-an. The block-hcnise sjfuards ran out to see what 
was the matter, and were seized. The forlorn hope, sn-pijorted bv Major 
Clarke, broke throug'h all o])position. and soon became masters cd' the 
niaia work, with the cannon, etc. So ra])id were thev in their move- 
ments that the fort was gained before a piece of .irtillerv \v;is tired. 
The troops came pouring through the abati>. and in a few minutes were 
victorious. Unfortunately, in crossing the ditch thi.' ammunition was 
destroyed, and tlius their tirearms were useless. As soon as Major 
Sotitherland. then in command of the fort, comjirehended tlie situation, 
he threw himself into a small redoubt, with a i-ajitain. subaltern, and 
forty Hessians. Major I^c-e had no time to dislodge him or to remove or 
destroy property. Daylight was at h.md, :ind he had some anxiety 
about the boats at Uow's Ferry. besides this, the firing had aroused 
the British in New York, who could in a few minutes throw a large 
body of troops across the ri\er. He therefore ordered an immediate re- 
treat, and -sent Ca])tain Forsyth to Prior's Mill to collect such men as were 
most tit for the action anfl tal<e a ])osition on Bergen Heights to cover 
the retreat. Major Clarke was in the advance with most of the pris- 
oners; Lieutenants Armstrong and Reed formed the rear-guard. Lee now 
rode forward to lo(d< after the boats at the ferry. To his dismay not a 
boat was there to receive them. Captain Peyton, owing to the lateness of 
the hour, had removed them to Newark. I^ee immediately counter- 
marched liis troo])s to the Bergen road en mute for New Bridge, com- 
municated with I.,ord Stirling, and returned to the rear-guard at Prior's 
Mill. His ])rospects were now discmtraging. With troops worn down, 
amnumition destroyed, encumbered with prisoners, fourteen miles (d re- 
treat before him on a route lial)le to be intercepted by troops from New 
York, with no way of escai)e to the left, he could only depend upon the 
invincible courage of liis men. On reaching the heights opposite 'Wee- 
hock,' Captain Handy moved on the main road to facilitate the retreat. 
T[ere Cajjtain Catlett came U]) willi lifty men and good ammunition. ( )nc 



(,■2 H■r.sTal<^■ of bekcen couxtv 

partv was; then detiiched in the rear of Major Clarke on the Bergen road, 
and I me to move along the bank of the river. In this manner a sudden 
attack was prevented. At the Fort Lee road Colonel Ball, who had been 
forwarded to Lee's assistance, met him with two hundred fresh men. 
Shortly afterwards a b(Kly of the enemy appeared upon the right and 
opened fire on the retreating Americans. Lieutenant Reed immediately 
forced them, and Lieutenant Rudolph threw himself into a store-house 
which commanded the road. This disposition checked the enemy and gave 
the force time to cross the English Neighborhood creek at the Liberty 
pole, now Englewood. Just at that moment Major Southerland, who 
had followed Lee, came up, but halted, and finally fell back without 
venturing an attack. Major Lee arrived safely at New Bridge about 
one o'clock in the afterncxm. He had captured one hundred and fifty- 
nine of the garrison, including officers, and lost two killed and three 
wounded." 

The principal actirrs concerne<l in the affair were honored by con- 
gratulatory resolutions passed by Congress, September 24, 177'». 

Congress also placed in the hands of Major Lee fifteen thousand 
dollar^ to be distributed among the soldiers engaged in the attack. 

The massacre at Old Tappan occurred in 177S, the year of unpre- 
cedented suffering in the continental army at Valley Forge, the noted 
battle at Monmouth, and of the two other terrible massacres of Wyoming 
and of Cherrj' Valley. 

The old block-house which stood on Block-House Point above Bull's 
Ferry was probably built by the Tories as a shelter while they were se- 
curing wood from the hill in that vicinity to supply the British in New 
York, (luring the years 177'»-'SO. This block-house was placed on the 
liigh point above the ravine which extended back of the river on the 
north side of Guttenberg. It was protected on two sides by perpendicu- 
lar rocks which rise from tlie shore and the ravine, and surrounded on 
the other sides by abatis and stockades, with a ditch and parapet. It 
hid but one entrance, which was a covere 1 way large enough to admit 
liut one person at a time. 

Under the Act passed Uecem'.ier 2<>, 177S, an order was issued to 
raise eight hundred and twenty men to serve two years. One hundred 
;ind twenty men, the quota for Bergen County, were organized into two 
companies. 

The first was under the following ofti:ers: John Outwater, Captain; 
.Joseph Catterline, Lieutenant; Abraham Hoagland, Ensign. The 
second company was under Captain Blanch ; I^ieutenant, David Demar- 
est ; and Ensign, Jacobus Boggart. On December 29th, 1871 another 
call was made for men to serve one year, when four hundred and twenty- 
two n;en were placed in command of Major Samuel Hayes. The officers 
of the Bergen Company were Peter Ward, Captain; Joseph Catterline, 
Lieutenant ; Samuel Verbyke, Ensign. 

Bergen County had one companv of niililia and four companies of 
minute men in the service. The minute men were enlisted for four 



mSTOKY (M- Hl'.KCl'A' Cl>t">;TV h.i 

months, and were always ready to yfo when called and had precedence 
nf rank over the militia (iF the i)r<ivinco. The C(inii)anies from each 
«.-()unty fornied a battalion, ten in all. 

In 177(> three cotiipanies from Bergen were joined in battalion with 
three from Essex and two from Burlington, under Col. Philip Van Port- 
land. Lieutenant-Colonel David Brearley, and Major Richard Dev. The 
reg-ular militia of Berg-en County was organized in one regiment, as 
follows: 

Tennis Dey, Cohmel ; J(din Zabrislcie. Lieutenant-Colonel ; Cornelius 
^'an \'oorst, Lieutenant-Colonel ; Peter Fell, Lieutenant-Colonel ; Rich- 
ard Dey, Captain. First Major : John Mauritius Gcjeschius, Captain, 
Second Major ; George Ryerson, Adjutant ; Abr;. lam Van Boskirlc. 
Surgeon. 

Captains. — Crynes Bartholf. Thomas Blanch, Joseph Board. James 
Christi, Samuel Demarest. Abraham Harring-, Cornelius Harring. Abra- 
ham A. P. Harring-. John Hopper, Jonathan Hopper, (murdered bv 
Tories at New Barbadoes, Berg-en County, April 2L 17^)9 ), Adam Huyler. 
John Huyler, ( twice a prisoner of war), Jacobus Jaraloman, Henricus 
Kuyper, David Marinus. Henry Obest ( wounded near Hackensack, March 
17, 1780), John Outwater (wounded March, 1780), Elias Romine, Jucol) 
Terhune, Nicausa Terhune, David Van Hossum, Coriner Van Honten. 
John Vreeland. Peter Ward, John Willis. 

Lieutenants. — Henrv Bardan, Thomas lihiir. David Dnffe. William 
Denniston. David Doremus, John D. Haring, David \'a!i Busse, Peter 
S. Van Order. 

First Lieutenants.— Cornelius D. B]au\-eli. (ieorg-e Brinkerhoff. 
Peter Sanford. 

Second Lieutenants. — (iilliam Bogfart, John Uriancy. 

Sergeants. — Anthony Beam. Cooms, John F. Harring, Carpen- 
ter Kelly, James Riker, Benjamin Romine, John Hasbrook. Cornelius 
P. Westervelt, Epson Van Winkle, Albert Wilson. 

Corporals, etc. — Abram Vreeland ; .\l)raham King, drummer ; Wil- 
liam Blair, drummer ; Garrett Post, farrier, "Lee's Leg-ion," Coiitineiit.il 
.•\rmv ; Jacob \'anderpool, bombardier. Continental Army. 

SCK-MC (II' MAJdlv' ANDKIv's KATIC. 

The little villag-e of Tajjpan, X. Y., although not a part of Bergen 
County, is nevertheless, incidentally conn.'cted with the Revolutionary 
part of it. The villag-e is but a few rods over the State line, and is the 
place where Major Andre, the British sjiy met his fate October 2. 1780, 
an incident of the Revolution which will ever hold its own for interest 
with any eng;agement in that stirring struggle. 

In 1821 the remains of Major Andre were disinterred by order .d the 
Duke of York and taken to Westminster Abbey, where they now rest. 
When Dean Stanley was in this country, in October. 1878, he and Mr. 
Cyrus W. Field, his host, visited the spot where Andre was executed 
and originallv buried. The cedar trees which originally marked the s])ot 
had lieeii dug up and removed with the reiiKiins in 1S21. and two wild 



64 HISTOKY or-' BEKCIEX COr'NTV" 

liirrrv trees planted in their place. A curious fact in this connection is 
that a peach-tree which had sprung' up on the f^rave was found to have 
wraj'ipcd its roots around Major Andre's skulL 

WASHINC.TON AT HACKKXSACK. 

Tlie follovvin<)- account of Washington's march and brief sojourn at 
Hackensack was written l)y Rev. Theodore B. Koneyn, and is as follows: 

" Washinjj;ton, at the head of his army, consisting only of about ?,Qiii> 
men, having sent on his baggage to Acquackenouch, crossed the new 
bridge into the town. This crossing was made at a point now called 
' Old Bridge,' about four miles north of Hackensack village. It was about 
dusic when the head of the troojjs entered Hackensack. The night was 
dark, colil and rainy, but I had a fair view of them from the light of the 
vvind(>\v> as they passed on our side of the street. They marched two 
abreast, looked ragged, some without a shoe to their feet, and most of 
ihem wrapped up in their blankets. Washington then, and for some 
time jjrevious, had his headrjuarters at the residence of Mr. Peter Zabris- 
kie, a private house, now called 'The Mansion House,' the su])plies for 
the General's table being furnished by Mr. Archibald Campbell, the 
tavern-keeper. The next evening after the Americans had passed 
throttgh, the British encamped on the opposite side of the river. We 
could see their tires about one hundred yards apart gleaming brilliantly 
ill the gloom of the night, extending some distance below the town, and 
more than a mile up toward the New Bridge. Washington was still at 
his quarters, and had with him his suite, life-guard, a company of foot, 
a regiment of cavalry, and some soldiers from the rear of the army. 

■' In the morning before the (leneral left, he rode down to the dock 
where the bridge now is, viewed the enemv's encampment about ten or 
fifteen minutes, and then returned to Mr. Campbell's door and called for 
some wine and water. After he had drank and Mr. Campbell had taken 
the glass from him, tlie latter, with tears streaming down his face, said, 
■ (xeneral, what shall I do? I have a family of small children and a little 
])roperty here ; shall I leave them?' Washington kindly took his hand 
and re])lied, • Mr. Campljell. stav bv vour familv and keep neutral" then 
bidding him good-bye, rode off. 

••About noon the next dav the British took possession of the town, 
and in the afternoon the (Ireen was covered with Hessians, a horrible 
sight to the inhabitants. There were between ."^OOD and 4000, with their 
whiskers, brass caps and kettles, or brass drums. A part of these troops 
were taken prisoners two months after at Trenton. 

A picrrKic oi' Tine pati^iots. 

■' Tliey marched two al)reast, looked ragged, some without a shoe 

to their feet, and most of them wrapped up in their blankets." What a 

]iicture these words suggest of the condition of that struggling band of 

liatri' ts as tluy marclud 1hr(aigh our streets that cold and rainy night." 



HISTORY OF ni'.KCKN COTNTY (,~. 



TOKY AM) HKITISH K'AIDS. 

The accounts of these r;ii<ls. tr.-mscrihed below, are taken from The 
State Historical Collections: also ,]uote<l l)v F. IJ. Konieyn. 

WW H^SKII^■K"S RAID. 

"Northward from Ilackensack a few miles some of the most serious 
depredations were made. Amonjr these was a Torv raid of a hundred 
men, led by Colonel Van Buskirk, who on the Itlth of Mav, 177"», entered 
by way of Closter, and carried off a number <>i inhabitants; firin;,'- build- 
ing-s, as well as destroyin,i>- life. Another detachment swept desolation 
on the 17th, and not a house of a Whiij- escaped. In the first of these 
raids Cornelius Tallman. Samuel Uemarest. Jacob Cole, (leorsre p.us- 
kirk, were cajjtured. Cornelius Demarest was killed, and Henderick 
Demarest, .leremiah Westeryelt and Dow Westervelt were wourdec'. 
The buildings of Peter Demarest, Matthew Bogert, Cornelius Hyler and 
Samuel Demarest were burned. In the latter Abram Allen and Ceorge 
Campbell were murdered. Jacob Zabriskie was stabbed in fifteen ])laces, 
and t^yo negro women were shot down." 

It is doubtless to these yery same raids that reference is made in a 
letter from Closter dated >Iay 1(1, 177"» ; and (|uote<I in the History of 
Bergen Coxinty, page 77. That letter ^adds some details not giyen in 
the preceding account and is therefore transcribed : " This day about 
<me hundred of the enemy came by the way of the New Dock, attacked 
the place, and carried off Cornelius Tallman, Samuel Demarest. Jacob 
Cole and George Buskirk; killed Cornelius DeTuarest ; wounded Hen- 
derick Demarest, Jeremiah Westeryelt, Dow Tallman, etc. They burnt 
the houses of Cornelius Demarest, Matthias Ilogert and Cornelius Huv- 
ler, Samuel Demarest's house and barn, J(din llanta's house and barn, 
and Cornelius Bogert's and John \Vester\-ell's barns. They attempted 
to burn eyery building they entered, but the lire was in some ])Iaces ex- 
tinguished. They destroyed all the lurniture. etc., in many houses ar.d 
abused many of the women. In their retreat they were so closely pur- 
sued by the Militia and a few Continental troo])s that thev took off no 
cattle. They were of Buskirk's corjjs some of our Closter and old 
Ta])])an neighbors, joined by a ])art\' of negroes. I should haw men- 
tioned the negroes first in order to grace tlu' liritish arms." 
tiKiTisn AM) ui;ssi\x raid rroN iiacki:.\S-VCK. 

Another <>{ these raids is described as f(dlows: "In the latter part 
of March, 17<S0, a party of about four hundred British Hessians and 
refugees passed through Hackeiisack on their way to attack some Penn- 
syh-ania troo])s at Paramus. It was about three o'clock in the night 
vyhen they entered the lower ])art of the town. .\11 was <|uiet. A small 
company of twenty or thirty Militia, under Cai)lain John Outwater, had 
retired for the night to the barracks, barns and outhouses, where those 
friendly to the American cause generally resorted to rest. One-half of 
the enemy marched quietly through, when the rear, consisting mostly 
of Hessians, arriyed, they l)roke open the doors and windows, robbed 
and ]>hiiider<.'d and took jjrisoners a few peaceable inhabitants, among 



f,6 HISTOKV OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

whom was Mr. Archibald Campbell. This gentleman, who had been 
for several weeks confined to his l)ed with the rheumatism, they forced 
into the street and compelled to follow them. Often in their rear, they 
threatened to shoot him if he did not hasten his pace. In the subse- 
quent confusion he escaped and hid in the cellar of a house opposite 
New Bridge. He lived until 179iS, and never experienced a return of the 
rheumatism." 

Mr. Romeyn gives another version of that incident to this effect: 
"He is said to have escaped at New Bridge by hiding under the bridge, 
and standing, as one version of the affair has it, for some time in two 
feet of water, which hydropathic treatment may account for the fact 
that he was cured of his painful disease, unless we may suppose that 
vigorous bodily exercise at the point of a bayonet, or a good thorough ' 
fright, could serve as a curative." 

The first narrative continues : "The Hessians burnt two dwellings 
and the Court House. The latter stood on the west side of the green, 
eight or ten rods from Campbell's tavern. Fortunately the wind was 
from the west, and drove the flames and sparks over the green, and the 
tavern was saved by the family throwing water over the roof. At this 
those in the outhouses were aroused, and the militia hastened across the 
fields, mounted horses, and alarmed the troops at Paramus. By the time 
the enemy had arrived at what is now Red Mills, four miles from Hack- 
ensack, they ascertained the Americans were on the way to meet them. 
Disappointed, they retraced their steps, and when near Hackensack 
turned off to the north, on the road leading to New Bridge ( Old Bridge ), 
to the left of which there is a range about half a mile distant from the 
road, the intervening ground being level. Here the Continentals and 
Militia were hurrying over, kept, however, at a distance by large flanking 
parties of the enemy, who, on arriving at the bridge, were detained about 
two hours in replacing the plank torn up by the Americans. In the 
meantime their parties were skirmishing with our people. Having 
crt)ssed over, they marched down the east side of the Hackensack through 
the English neighborhood, being pursued twelve miles to a considerable 
distance within their lines, down to Bergen Woods. They lost many 
killed and wounded. There were none killed im our side. A young man 
of the town was wounded by a spent ball, which cut his upper lip, knocked 
out four teeth, and was caught in his mouth. Captain Outwater received 
a ball below the knee that was never extracted. He carried it for many 
years, and it was buried with him." 

THE ATTACK I!Y M AJOK-C.ENEKAL HE.\TH. 

The account of another raid is to this effect: In December, ]77(i, it 
was reported that there were at Hackensack about one thousand of the 
enemy, and the suggestion of Huntington to Major-General Heath was 
to intercept them in their foragings. The latter on the 14th expressed 
his purpose to sweep the village, which he did the next day. Making a 
forced march by way of Tappan, he came upon the inhabitants by sur- 



HISTOKV <)1- BKKtiH.N COrNTY f)7 



])risc; but the enemy had k-l't. He says. -The enemy had left the hiwer 
town some (hiys since, except live, whom we took, two of them heinj;- 
sick. We had taken about hfty .d' tlie disalTected, and about lifty or 
sixty muskets, the greater ])art of which had been taken from the Whiffs, 
it is supposed, and stored. At the ihick we found <me sloop k)adcd with 
hay, house furniture, and some sjjirits. etc.. which we have this dav un- 
h)aded, etc. A brig-, loaded, ran down the river about seven miles and 
grounded. I am afraid we shall not be able to secure the effects. A 
schooner loaded with hay. furniture, etc., wliich had sailed from tin- 
dock, ran on the banks ^)i the river, the wind being- verv fresh, and in 
the nig-ht overset, by which the goods are damaged, if not lost. Two 
or three companies have been raising here and ther in the vicinitv, and 
field-ofiicers appointed: one Van Buskirk, Colonel. At his home we 
found lifty barrels of flour, a number of hogsheads (d' rum. and at one 
Brown's, who is Lieutenant-Colonel, about one thousand pounds of 
cheese. One Tenpenny is Major. They are all gone to New York to 
have matters properly- settled, get ammunition, arms, etc.. and were to 
have returned yesterday. I believe we have luckily disconcerted them. 
Such inhabitants as are friendly, received us with joy, but are almost 
afraid to s_),iak their sentiments, and indeed, little or no intelligence can 
lie got from the inhabitants.' " In referring to the brig that ran aground 
seven miles l)elow, Mr. Romeyn writes: "The brigantine w-hich 
grounded just below the village was subsequently boarded, but was re- 
taken by the eneni}-. Among other articles taken from her was a large 
chest of plate, said to belong to a Mr. Yates, but it had been ])ut in his 
possession for safety at Hackensack by Mr. William Wallace^ It was 
worth about fifteen hundred pounds." 

KEVOLl'TI().N.\KV KKMINI.SCKNCK. 

l'>om the History of Hackensack published in the Bergen County 
Uemocrat we copy the following: 

It is related by our worthy citizen, Mr. Henry \'anderbeck. of Kiver 
Street, that in lis7S, a party of British soldiers came up the Hackensack 
River and burned the Court House and raided the neighboring farm- 
houses. 

Among the ])laces visited was the house of his grandfather. I'aul 
Vanderbeck, situated near the present home of the grandson. At the 
time of this raid, Paul \'an(lerl)ick was in camp with Captain Outwater, 
then staticmed near Paramus. ,\Irs. Vanderbeck was at home alone, 
and tried by every possible means to hide away some few things in the 
cellar, among which she unfortunately stored away three or four geese. 
When the British had stolen all the pigs and geese and almost every 
eatable thing, including a batch of hot bread just from the oven, together 
with all the butter in the house, and were about to retire with their 
booty, one of tlie imprisoned ganders, with goose-like simplicity, gave a 
loud cry which called attention to their hiding place, and resulted in 
their being taken along with the ,,ther iihnider. These raiders ])laced 



68 ursToKV 01-" bkkgex cointv 

the lii)t l)rca(l in the same bag with the rolls of butter, already stowed 
away. ai;(l Mrs. Vaiiuerbeck rejoiced greatly when watching them depart 
ali.iig the lane to note the melted butter running down the backs of the 
red coati; of the Britishers who bore that part of the forage. 

Some two hours later, two British officers rode up and asked Mrs. 
Vanderbeck if she could furnish them with something to eat, and she 
irifdinied them that their Hessian troopers had stolen eyerything she 
had to eat. except a loaf of bread which she had hidden and the cream 
which she was just almut to churn when the raid took place. They told 
her to i>lace the cream in the churn and they would do the churning for 
her. which tliey did. When they obseryed Mrs. Vanderbeck working 
the liutter with a wooden ladle, they expressed surprise and commented 
on the superiority of this method oyer that of working it with the hand, 
such as i)revailed in their country. After being supplied with the re- 
maining loaf, and the new butter, and a liberal quantity of fresh milk, 
they each gave her a guinea to compensate her for her loss and took 
their departure. 

rilKKl'; COMMAXDEKS — COLON'EI. AAKON BTKIv'. COLOXEI. CEOKGK BAyLOK, 

kki(;adiek-(;i;.vekal exuch pook. 

Thev find place ;ind mention here, for a reason previously given, 
and that has governed in the selection of the subject matter of this 
portion of the work, viz., their relation to <.)ur local history. 

Mr. Komjvn wrote of Colonel Aaron Burr as follows : "It was just 
above the village of Hackensack, aljout two miles, in September, 1777. 
that Colonel Burr i Aaron Burr < played a very active part which gave him 
his rirst military reputation. Hearing, at the point where his regiment 
was lying, that the British had marched out of New York, and were 
devasting the country, and were within thirty miles of him, he started 
to meet them with his small force. About ten o'clock in the evening, 
when within three miles of Hackensack, he received information that 
the most advanced of the enemy pickets were cmly a mile distant. His 
men having marched thirty miles since breaking camp, and being ex- 
tremely fatigued, he ordered them to lie down and keep silent until he 
returne<l. In a few moments they were all asleep. 

In the meanwhile, Colonel Burr went forward alone to reconnoitre, 
slealthilv he felt his way toward the picket, and found them lying on 
the ground guarded bv the sentinels. He was near enough to hear their 
watchword. He ascertained by making a wide detour that this picket 
was so far in advance of the main body as to be out of hearing. In 
gaining this information, so much time was spent, that it was within an 
hour of daybreak before he returned to his regiment. Quietly and 
quickly waking his men, lie informed them of his purpose to attack the 
enemy's picket, and ordered them to follow a certain distance, and for- 
bade any man to si)eak on pain of instant death. So accurately had the 
Colonel noted the locality and calculated the position of the senti- 
nels, that he was al)le to lead his men between those two unsus- 



IIISTOKV OK BKKC.liN COI'NTY (i'> 



pjcliny individuals at the in )11umU when thev wcro farthest apart; 
and he was ahnost upon the sleepinj;- picket In'fore a man of it bef^an to 
>tir. When at a distance of ten yards, Burr was challenged bv a sentinel, 
whom he immediately shot dead, and thon s>-ave the word of attack. 
One officer, a sergeant, a corjioral .ind twenty-seven privates fell into 
their hands, on this occasion. Only one of the pickets besides the sen- 
tinel, made any resistance, and he was overpowered after he had received 
two bayonet wounds. He attempted to march awav with his comrades, 
but after going a short distance was comi)elled to lie down exhausted 
and fainting from loss of l>lood. "(io a little further niv g-ood fellow." 
said Burr, "and we will get a surgeon for vou." "Ah I" gasped the 
dying veteran, "all the doctors in America can do me no service, for I 
am a dying man; but it grieves me sore to the heart that I have served 
my King upward of twenty years, and at length must die with a charged 
nuisket in my hand." 

From the more extended account, found in the history of Bergen 
and Passaic Counties, we extract the f>)llowing statements concerning 
Colonel George Baylor : Sir Henry Clinton, the British Commander, to 
divert attention from some <)f his projected military movements, ordered 
Ivord Cornwallis, Major-General Charles (Irey, and General Knyphausen, 
to undertake a foraging expedition into Kast New Jersey. General 
Washington, in order to check this movement of the British up the Hud- 
son, " ordered Colonel Baylor with the Third Regiment Light Dragocms 
of Virginia, to move frimi their stati(m at Paramus, a small hamlet on 
Saddle River about six miles northwest from Hackensack, and post them- 
selves on the Hackensack River to watch the movements northward of 
the force under Lord Cornwallis. Colonel Baylor had up to this time 
proved himself a very gallant officer." 

"It was just at twilight, September 27. 177S, when Colonel Baylor 
and his troopers came to the little stream of the Hackensack, somewhat 
over three miles scmthwest from Tappan Village. Here he learned that 
Brigadier General Anthony Wayne was Imt a short distance north of 
Tappan with a body of militia. So fearing, perhaps, the superior rank 
of Wayne, and not wishing to lose his detached authority, he halted bis 
men on the Overkill Neighborhood Road, and (juartered his dragoons in 
the barns r)f thrifty farmers. His force consisted of twelve officers and 
one hundred and four enlisted men. Colonel Baylor, with his regimental 
staff officers, knocked at the farm house of Cornelius A. Haring, and 
his son Ralph, who had just been married, opened the door for them. 
They told Mr. Haring of their desire to spend the night there, and he 
received them willingly, although he informed them that he understood 
the British were lying at New Bridge and might at any time come upon 
them. Cohmel Baylor ilid not ai)])ear alarmed at this statement, but 
after seeing that his men were well provided for, and after posting a 
guard of sergeant and twelve men at the bridge over the Hackensack 
about half a mile south of Mr. Haring's house, with strict orders to 



70 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COX'XTY 

kec]) a patrol (if two men oil each road to watch them a mile below and 
to he relieved ever}' hour, he retired to sleep in fancied security." 

Meanwhile Major General Grey — known as "No flint General," 
from his habit of ordering his troops to take the flints from their i^uns. 
and depend on their bayonets — advanced to make the ordered attack 
ui)on C'ohmel Baylor. The remainder of the stor_v is soon told. "The 
troo])s (British) just before midnig-ht, September 27th, marched on the 
road on the west bank of the Hackensack River silently and in perfect 
order until thev arrived withiri half a mile of the patrol on th.il mail. 
Here thev halted, and, guided by some Tories who knew the ground, a 
party of picked men * * made a detour to the left through the 

fields, and then passed to the rear of the sergeants' guard at the bridge 
and the patrol on the river road, and without the slightest difiiculty 
ma 1,' them prisoners. O.ij, at least, however, escaped. The sentinel who 
liatl escaped from the sergeants' guard at the Bridge awoke Ralph Haring. 
who aroused his father. The warning, however, came too late, as the 
Lritish soldiers were upon the heels of the sentinel, and burst into the 
house with the cry of "no quarter to the rebels.' Then the brutal sol- 
diers began to bayonet the inmates. Lieutenant John Smith and his 
company, quartered in the barn, were quickly surrounded, and, although 
thev surrendered, were inhumanly treated and wounded, and but few 
escaped. Other houses and barns in the neighborhood, where the 
American soldiers had been quartered, were visited by the British troops 
and the scenes of cruelty and bloodshed repeated. 'The cries for mercy 
of the defenseless soldiers were answered only by acts of savage cruelty.' 
'The dragoons, stirprised, incapable of successful defense, with no pros- 
pect of inflicting injury on their f<ve, could only sue for pitv. But the 
bayonet was still at its bloody work, and thrust after thrust was given 
whenever any sign of life ajjpeared." 

"Tile result of this slaughter was that out of the one hundred and 
sixteen men of the regiment, eleven were instantly bayoneted to death, 
seventeen left behind covered with bayonet wounds and expected to die, 
and thirtv-niiie were taken prisoners, eight of wh(mi were severely 
wounded. The rest of the troopers escaped in the darkness. All the 
arms and seventy horses were i)art of the booty captured." 

"A strong feeling of indignation spread over the country when 
this cruel massacre was announced." "The affair, while it seemed so 
very brutal, was also certainly very impolitic, as the killing a few de- 
fenceless men in the night would hardly reward the enemy for the bitter 
haired engendered in the hearts and openly expressed in the homes of 
the patriots." Congress, bv s])ecial resolution, directed an investiga- 
tion of tlie affair bv Governor Livingston, and when he had secured the 
desired infornialioil. his re])ort of the barb.irous action was ])ublished to 
the world, and served to keep alivt' for two generations thereafter, the 
feelings of hatred cherished bv Americans toward their former foes. 

While great sviii])atliv was expressed for Ccdonel Baylor, his care- 



HI.S'1X)KY OK BKKCKN COINTY 71 



Jcssness and unsoldierly conduct und.-r the oircum^t.inces brou'^ht iDu-i 
liini severe and merited eondonination. 

"In September, 17iS0. the American Army lay at Kimlerhamack, in 
what is now Washington Townslii]). InT>;vn County. While here, on 
tlie Stli of SepteJnber, occurred the death ol' Hrii;-adier (General Knoeh 
I'oor."" 

A military journal ol' Se])tember Kith, 17S((, records the followinsr: 
■•We are now lamentinjr the loss of Brii-adier (General Poor, who died 
last niu^ht of putrid fever. His funeral solemnities have been atten<led 
this afternoon. The corpse was brousrht this morninij from Paramus. 
and left at a house ab<mt a mile frtmi the burying vard at Hackensack. 
whence it was attende<l to the place of interment b\ the following \)V<)- 
cession: A regiment (d' light infantry in uniform with arms reversed; 
f<mr field pieces; Major Lee's regiment of light horse; General Hand 
and his brigade; the Major on horseback; two chaplains; the horse (d' the 
<lecease(U with his boots and spurs suspended from the saddle, led bv a 
servant; the corpse borne by ftmr sergeants, and the pall su])ported l)v 
six general officers. The coffin was of mahogany, and a pair <<\' pistols, 
and two swords crossing each other, and tied with black cra])e, wtre 
])laced on the top. The corpse was followed by the officers of the New 
Hampshire brigade, the officers of the brigade of light infantry which the 
deceased had lately commanded. Other officers fell in promiscuously, and 
were followed by His Excellency. General Washington, and other general 
officers. Having arrived at the burying-yard the troops opened to the right 
and left, resting on their arms reversed; and the j)r<)cessiou passed to the 
grave i in the yard of the First Reformed Dutch Church of Hackensack i 
where a short eulogy was delivered by the Rev. Mr. Evans. A band of 
music with a number of drums and fifes pl.iyed a funeral dirge, the 
drums were muffled witli black crajie, and tlu' oflicers in the procession 
wore crape around the left arm. 

■'The regiment of light infantry were in handsome uniform, ami 
wore in their caps long feathers of black and red. The elegant regiment 
of horse, commanded by Major Lee, in comi)lete uniform and well dis- 
ci])lined, exhibited a martial and nolde a])])earance." 

On the tablet covering his remains this inscrii)tion may l>e found: 
"In memorv of Hon. Brigadier GeniT.-il i'^noch Poor, of the State of 
New Hampshire, who departed this life on tile Sth of September, 17S(i, 
aged 44 years,'" Washington, Lafayette and a jiortion of the iVnurican 
Army attended the funeral of (ieneral Poor. 

In 1.S24 Lafayette revisited this grave, and. turning away much 
much affected, exclaimed: " Ahl that was one of my (ienerals," 

IJrigadiiT (General Poor, who was a native of New IIami)shire. re- 
ceixed that titK' in 1777, and was one of the most competent and re- 
spected <ifticers uf the Continental Army, antl serve<l throughout his 
career, in which he rose rajjidly through the ranks, from Colonel to 
General, with distinction and honor. 



/2 HISTORY OF BEKCJIJN COUNTY 

THE WAR OF THE REBELLION. 

Upon the breaking- (uit of the War of the Rebellion in 1861, when 
call was issued by the President for seYenty-tive thousand men, the quota 
for the State of New Jersey was three thousand, one hundred and twenty 
men, or four regiments of seYen hundred and eig-hty each, to be detached 
from the four general military diYisions of the State. The War Depart- 
ment also required that in addition to the reg-iments called for, the reserYe 
militia in the seYeral states should be organized as rapidly as possible. 

(ioYcrnor Olden received the requisition of the War Department on 
the 17th of April, and immediately issued a proclamation directing all 
individuals or organizations willing to respond to the call, to report 
themselves within twenty days. On the same day he notified the War 
Department that the call for troops would be attended to as rapidly as 
possible, and issued orders to Major-Generals of the several military 
divisions of the State, to detail, each one regiment of ten companies, 
and also to organize immediatelv the reserve militia in their respective 
brigades. The Major-Generals in detailing the regiments required, 
were directed to accept the services of volunteers, but if the requisite 
number did not offer, they were required to draft from the reserve 
militia to make up the deficiency. 

New Jersey's quota under the first call was filled in a few days. 

At Hackensack a meeting was held on April 22, 1S()1, presided over 
1)Y Hon. J. A. Zabriskie, when a committee was appt>inted to draft reso- 
lutions, and after remarks by William S. Banta, Esq., the following were 
drafted : 

"Whereas, The union of the States is in danger, and the Consti- 
tution, framed at so great a cost by our fathers, which contains within 
itself all needful provisions for the necessities of the government, has 
been set at defiance ; and whereas our national flag has been insulted 
and government property invaded and seized by armed traitors, therefore 

"Resolved, That the Union shall be preserved at all hazards, the 
Constitution upheld, the right of the government vindicated, and the 
Declaration of Independence maintained in its full spirit and power. 

"Resolved, That for the defense and maintenance of (mr country 
and its institutions we are prepared, if need be, to sacrifice our wealth, 
shed our blood, and lay down our lives. 

" Resolved that our country is the l)est country in the world, and 
that we are not prepared to witness its destruction without first exerting 
all the means at our command for its perpetuation. 

"Resolved, That Bergen County will stand by our national banner 
in the eventful crisis, and those who go out from among us to the tented 
field to uphold that sacred banner merit and will receive our warmest 
sympathy and aid. 

■'Resolved, That a committee of six be appointed by this meeting 
to provide means for the sup])ort of those left destitute by the absence of 
their husbands or fathers who may volunteer in the defense of their 
countrv." 



HISTOKY OK Bi;Kt;HN CorNTV 



The fnlln\\in<r gentleiiien were appointed such committee : D. A. 
Berry, (iarret C. Ackerson, W. S. I'.anta. John L. Harle, John H. Banta. 
and John J. Anderson. A book heinj.;- then opened tor volunteer:,, a 
large number of names were enrolled. 

Under an Act of Congress ai)proved July 22. ISdl, the Twenty-sec- 
ond Regiment was organized, and on September 22. 1S()2, was mustered 
into the United States service, for nine months. This regiment, the 
Twenty-secimd Infantry, was the contribution of Bergen County, and 
consisted of nine hundred and thirty-nine men. including officers. These 
men consisted chiefly of men from the agricultural districts, robust and 
soldierly in appearance. The regiment started to Washingtcm. I). C. . 
on the 2''th f)f September, lSh2, and upon their arri.il were ordered into 
Camp at Georgetown, having been assigned to a provisional brigade 
"Casey's defenses of Washington." After remaining until the lust of 
December they were sent to Aquia Creek, \'a., and assigned to Patrick's 
bridge, ])rov()st-guard Army of the Potomac, their duties being the 
guarding of the railroad, transferring of wounded, prisoners, etc. Thev 
were next placed in the Third Brigade, First Division, First Army Corps, 
Their only imjiortant engagement was that of Chancellorsville, Virginia, 
on the 2nd and 3rd of May, 1S(),^. Upon the expiration of their term of 
enlistment the regiment was ordered to return to New Jersey for its dis- 
charge, and was mustered out of service at Trenton on the 25th of June. 
l.S()3, their term of service having expired on the l.sth of that month. 

" Previous to being mustered out at Trenton they were given amagni- 
licent reception by the ladies and citizens, Maj. I'Vank Mills, of that city, 
delivering an appropriate address on the occasion. The companies 
returning to Hackensack were also received with warm congratulations, 
and a collation was served at the Mansion House." 

The original field, staff and line officers of the regiment, were. 
Field and Staff — Cornelius Fornett. Colonel; Alexander Douglas, Lieu- 
tenant-Colonel; Abraham (I. Demarest. Major; Jidin 1'^. Satterthwaite, 
Adjutant; Ural B. Titus, (Juartermaster ; Jacob B. Ouick, Surgeon; 
Samuel A. Jones, Assistant Surgeon ; John iv Cary, Second Assistant 
Surgeon; Abraham G. Kverson, Chaplain. 

The non-Commissioned Staff were : John Ferdon, Sergeant-Major; 
James T. (lunnelly, yuartermaster-Sergeant ; i''re<lerick P. Van Kiper. 
Commissary-Sergeant ; Benjamin S. Mennier. Hospital-Steward. Line 
officers- Company A.. Robert \V. Berry. Cai)tain ; Jacob Post, b'irst 
[.rieutenant ; Jacob S. Lozier. Second Lieutenant. Company B.. Abra- 
ham Van Kmburgh, Captain ; Jacob Z. Van Blarcom, First Lieutenant; 
Benjamin Z. Van Kmburg, Second Lieutenant. Company C. Samuel 
D. Demarest, Captain; William J. Demarest, First Lieutenant; Joseph 
P. Vreeland, Second Lieutenant. Com])any D.. John C. Westervelt, 
Captain; Walter H. Rumsey, First Lieutenant; Nicholas Collingnon, 
Sec<md Lieutenant. Ccmipany F., William Chippendale, Captain ; Wil- 
liam Drem, First Lieutenant; John (lilham, Second Lieutenant. Com- 
jjany F.. James M. Avers, Cajitain ; Jacob Titus, First Lieutenant; 



74 HISTOKV OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

George W. Cubberlev. Second I^ieutenant. Company G.. John H. Mar- 
gerum, Captain; Richard H. Ivory, First Lieutenant; William C. Van- 
derwater. Second Lieutenant. Company H., Daniel D. Blauvelt, Cap- 
tain; Thomas G. T. Paterson, First Lietitenant ; George Kingsland, 
Second Lieutenant. Company L, Thomas H. Swenarton, Captain; 
Joseph A. Blauvelt, First Lieutenant; David C. Blauvelt, Second Lieu- 
tenant. Company K., Richard C. Dey, Captain ; Garret J. Christie, 
First Lieutenant ; James Christie. Second Lieutenant. 

Early in January, 1863, the Twenty-second Regiment was removed 
to Belle Plains and attached to the left wing of General Franklin's di- 
vision, brigade of General Paul. On February 1st, 186.3, Lieutenant- 
Colonel Alexander Douglas resigned his commission, and Major A. G. 
Demarest was afterward promoted to the Colonelcy. 

Promotions were : Major Abraham G. Demarest, promoted to Col- 
onel January 26, 18()3 ; Captain Abraham Van Emburg, promoted to 
Lieutenant-Colonel, vice Alexander Douglass, resigned, February 20, 
1863; Captain Samuel D. Demarest, promoted to Major February 2(1, 
1863 ; First Lieutenant Jacob Post, promoted to Adjutant January 1, 
1863 ; Assistant-Surgeon William S. Janney, promoted to Surgeon March 
27, 1863, died of typhoid feyer in camp near White Oak Church, Va., 
June 1, 1863; Second Lieutenant Jacob S. Lozier, promoted to Captain 
January 16, 1863 ; First Lieutenant Joseph A. Blauvelt, promoted to 
Captain May 18, 1863 ; Second Lieutenant George Kingsland, promoted 
to First Lieutenant November 20, 1862 ; Second Lieutenant James Chris- 
tie, promoted to Captain May 18, 1863 ; Second Lieutenant Benjamin Z. 
Van Emburg, promoted to Captain February 21, 1863; Second Lieuten- 
ant Joseph Vreeland, promoted to Captain February 22, 1863; Sergeant 
Stephen G. Hopper, promoted to First Lieutenant March 11, 1863 ; First 
Sergeant Garret M. Campbell, promoted to Second Lieutenant January 
16, 1863 ; Corporal Richard A. Terhune, promoted to Second Lieutenant 
March 11, 1863 ; Sergeant Milton Birley, promoted to First Sergeant 
September 1, 1862; First Sergeant John A. Van Buskirk, promoted to 
First Lieutenant September 2, 1862 ; First Sergeant Albert F(5rbush, 
promoted to First Lieutenant May 18, 1863 ; First Sergeant (iilbert T. 
Bogert, promoted to Second Lieutenant November 20, 1862, and to First 
Lieutenant May 18, 1863 ; Sergeant George A. Ward, promoted to First 
Sergeant January 1, 1863; First Sergeant Andrew Van Emburg, pro- 
moted to First Lieutenant February 21, 1863, and to Captain May 18, 
1863 ; Sergeant Charles Van Riper, promoted to First Lieutenant May 
18, 1863 ; Sergeaat Thomas Eckerson, promoted to First Sergeant March 
8, 1863; Corporal John S. Townsend, promoted to Sergeant June 1, 1863; 
Corporal William Cowperthwaite, promoted to Sergeant January 1, 1863 ; 
Corporal Nicholas P. Royce, promoted to Sergeant February 4, 18()3 ; 
Corporal Cornelius Van Horn, promoted to Sergeant March 11, 1863; 
Corporal George A. Brinkerhoff, promoted to Sergeant March 11, 1863; 
Cor])oral Aaron Vanderbeck, promoted to Sergeant March 18, 1863; 
Cor])oral Al)raham H. Hopper, promotCMl to Sergeant March 18, 1863; 



IIISTOKV OK BKKC.ICN COTNTY 



Corporal David J. Blacklcds^'-e, promotod to Scrj^eant April 7, ISd.^ ; Pri- 
vate Peter L. Conklin, promoted to Second Lieutenant Februarv 22, 
18f)3; Corporal Isaac D. Bo-fert, ])roinoted to Seru-eant March 1, 1S(>.^; 
Private Cornelius Koert, promoted to Coriioral March 1, ISf),^. 

Tin-; iv'Aii.K'OAi) s'l'ix'iKi;. 

The famous railroad strike in ls77 readied New Jersey, New York, 
Pennsylvania, Maryland, West \'iryinia and ei<ihtof the Western States. 
The extent of the movement was so yreat that the United States Gov- 
ernment was called upon for assistance. New Jersey bein^ the East- 
ern terminus of the two great trunk lines of railroad, with their im- 
mense railroad property and interests subject to 'he communistic and 
criminal elements of the two great cities, rendered ihe jjosition in this 
State critical. 

To quell these riots the militia of nearly a dozen States was called 
into service. In the afternoon of the 23d of July the Second Battalion, 
under Major James Vreeland Moore, wasordered to report to Colonel Hart, 
at Hoboken, and were quartered there on a barge in the river with the 
Ninth Regiment. C)n the 27th the command accompanied Battery A to 
Jersey Cit}-, but the next day rejoined the Ninth Regiment at Hoboken. 
There being disorders and obstructions at Port Morris, Major Moore re- 
ceived instructions from the Governor to re])ort to (General Sewell, and 
at that point " to aid the authorities there in ])utting down all lawless- 
ness, or if they fail from any cause, do it vourself, using your best 
judgment." 

The battalion reached Port Morris at 12.4ii A. M. July 2'tth. On 
Monday, the M)th of July, General Sewell reported trains running. On 
the 3d of August a force of United States troops having reached Easton, 
Pa., the Second Battalion and regiments of National Guard were re- 
lieved. During this strife "the Second Battalion." under Major Moore, 
according to General Sewell's rejjort, "■ was a credit to any man in either 
])eace or war." 

THK WAK WITH SPAIN. 

During the Spanish-American War four cotn])anies from Bergen 
County were mustered into the United States service at Sea Girt, N. J., 
May 2, 1898. Their destination was Cuba. On June 1st the regiment 
left Sea (iirt for Cuba Libre, Jacksotix ille. i'^Iorida, and was attached to 
the Second Brigade, First Division, Seventh Army Corps, (reneral Fitz- 
hugh Ivee Commander. It returned home September 24th, and was 
mustered out of the United States service November 1 7th, 18<)8. at 
Paterson, N. J. The history of each -of these comj)anies is given in the 
chapters to which they severally belong. 



CHAPTER XII. 

SOCIETIES AND INCORPORATED COMPANIES OF 

BERGEN COUNTY. 

THE BEKC'.KN COItnTY BIBI.K SOCIKTV. 

At a meeting held in the Reformed Dutch Church of Haekensack, 
June l()th, 1S47, for the purpose of considering- the practicability 
of forming a Bible Society- for the County of Bergen, Rev. H. 
H. Warren was called to the chair, and Cornelius Blauvelt was 
chosen Secretary. The meeting adjourned to the first day of 
July, at which date an organization was effected and the follow- 
ing officers chosen: Rev. W. Elting, D. D., President; Revs. Bar- 
banas V. Collins and John Manley, Vice Presidents; Christian De Baun, 
Secretary, and A. (). Zabriskie, Treasurer. Executive Committee, Rev. 
A. H. Warner, Henry H. Banta, Peter Vestervelt, Jr., Jacob Van Bus- 
kirk, Andrew H. Hopper. Edward B. Force, Robert Rennie. 

The society has been from its organization an effective auxiliary uf 
the American Bible Society, and has worked in co-operation with the 
parent institution. 

The first anniversary of the society was held at the North Dutch 
Church in Schraalenburgh, March 14, 1848. Dr. Elting was re-elected 
President, and Christian De Baun, Secretary. Agents were appointed 
to canvass the different townships, and Bibles were obtained from the 
parent Bojiety. The colpDrteurs reported the first year 1859 families 
visited, S300.7-5 worth of books sold, S26 worth gratuitously distributed, 
S102..^() collected from contributions, 7.^ destitute families supjjlied and 
S.i'>2.75 paid for Bibles and Testaments. 

At the second anniversary, held in Haekensack, February 6th, 184<), 
Rev. John M. McAuley preached the occasional sermon. Rev. S. Iritmus 
Prime, one of the secretaries of the American Bible Society, was present 
and delivered an able address. Rev. Dr. Elting was re-elected Presi- 
dent and Christian De Baun, Secretary. For the year ending October 
1st, 1899, 330 Bibles and Testaments were donated and 95 sold/ 

The present officers are Rev. Edward Lode wick. President: Revs. 
Isaac Thomas and W. Williams, Vice Presidents; Rev. David W. Tal- 
madg. Secretary; Mr. A. S. D. Demarest, Treasurer. 

KKKGKN COUNTY SUNDAY-SCHOOL ASSOCIATION. 

This organization was formed in 1867, and has been largely par- 
ticipated in by clergymen and Sunday-school workers throughout the 
county. 

William Williams was elected the first president. He remained in 
office two vears, and was succeeded by Judge Thomas Cumming, who 
was elected Se])tember 12, 1870. The county is divided into three dis- 



HISTOKY Ol-- Hi;i<(",KX COVNTY 



tricts, the vieo-presidi-nts of the associ;itin;i heiuji" ex-offioio i)i-esi(lenls 
III' their respective dislricts. Each towiiship lias a secretary wlinse duv 
it is t(i furnish statistics in a rejiort each vear tn tlie county secretary. 

<'.AS AM) MI.IX'TK'IC COMPA.Xy IM' UlCKl ; K\ corxTY. 

The tirst lightinu- company established in Hackensack \yas in ISd". 
when by special Act of the Leg-islature. th- H;i:kensack (iasli jht C rn- 
pany was incorporated, a meetino^ for the purjiose havinif been held on 
July loth, of that year. The tirst directors were: L. J. Van Bod;erck. 
John J. Ward, M, M. Knapp, Garrett Ackerson, Jr., R, \'. Terliune. 
John J. Anderson and N. S. Banta. The first ofticers were : Pri'sident, 
M. M. Knapp; Treasurer, N. S. Banta; Secreta-^-, K. P. Terliune. 
The g-as company in these days had the tield to tiiemselves. reai>in<i- 
large profits, with gas at five dollars per thousand feet, and sjiending 
only so much money as the necessities of the case demanded. Business 
was profitable and good dividends were i)aid for about twenty years, the 
town being obliged to pay at the r.ite of thirty seven dollars and fifty 
cents per annum, for each light. On moonlight nights lami)> were not 
lighted. The only reason why greater revenues were not realiznl, lav 
in the fact that fewer lamps were used on a street, and a less number of 
streets lighted than at present. 

When electricity came into use, howexer, all this was changed. \u 
electric plant was put in by another company, when the income of the 
gas company fell off, and they soon found that .a new order of things 
must be instituted in order to save themselves from banlcrui)tcy. The 
new company found greater obstacles to overcome than had lieen .antici- 
pated, and to add to their troubles, their generating plant was Imrneil, 
in November, 1S"I4. The gas company which in l.S'»2, ha'd come under 
new control, now m.ide radical changes realizing that more modern 
methods must be used, and that impro\-ements were necessary. In 1S').=, 
a completion of the jil.ins culminateil in the purchase of tlu' electric 
plant, both comjianies coming under one control. 

The stockholders were all persons interested in the growth and de- 
velopment of the town, and fully cotivinci'd of thi- fact that in the near 
future not only gas but electricity also would be largely used for cook- 
ing purposes as well as lighting. 

The present gas generator has a capacity of something over a ipiar- 
tiT of a million cubic feet i)er day, and storage of about seventy-five 
thousand cubic feet, using over thirty miles of mains. The electric light- 
ing power of the ]>resent ])lant being about twelve thousand lights with 
over fifty miles of ])ole line, and about three hundred miles of wire. 
This plant is now a ])art of the new gas and Klectric Comi),iny ot 
Bergen County, a consolidation of the old Hackensack (ias and 
Electric Company, the Kidgewood IClectric (.'onipany, the E iglewood 
(ias and Electric C(m:])any. the Rutherford (ias Company, and the Ru- 
therford Electric Com])any. 



IlISTOKV OF BHKGEX COl'NTV 



Extensive enlargements to the g^enerating- plant in Hackensack are 
now under way with a view to shutting down all of the smaller outlying 
plants and supplying the entire C(.unty from the one station, gas to be 
supplied from the same point. 

This is a progressive cc^rporation quickly adopting the latest im- 
provements and keeping to the front in all matters upon which depend 
the maintenance of a first class service. In 1S')8 the company spent one 
hundred and twenty-five thousand dollars in improvements, and expect 
to spend a quarter of a million in the present year, ( 1899 i. 

The new company starts out with an authorized capital of two mil- 
lions of dollars and an authorized bonded issus of one million five hundred 
thousand dollars, the same interests controlling as heretofore, with : 
Frank B. Poor, President; Arthur B. Sturges, Vice-President; W. C. 
Thomas, Treasurer ; and Ivemuel Lozier, Secretary. The Board of 
Directors will number fifteen, all well known men of the county. They 
are Frank B. Poor, (ieorge W. Conklin, David St. John, E. A. Pearce, 
Lemuel Lozier, W. C. Thomas, and Samuel Taylor of Hackensack; E. 
A. Waltim, Ridgewood ; F. A. E. Cott, Englewood ; William McKenzie, 
Addis(m Ely, Rutherford ; Hamilton F. Kean, Elizalieth ; T. N. McCartor, 
Newark ; and Arthur B. Sturges, New York. 

bkkc;kn county medical society. 

In \h40 Harvard College was established followed in 1701 by Yale ; 
Princeton in 1746; King's College in 1754, and Oueen's in 1770. These 
institutions were for the promotion and maintenance of a high grade of 
>c!'.olarship, but with no especial object in view. 

Holland sent thoroughly trained theologians to look after the spirit- 
ual interests of the Colonists. She sent also able lawyers, as did boih 
England and Scotland, to attend to the legal interests of those who had 
come to the new world, but the physical ailments incident to man were 
nut tlinught of, to the extent of making- a special study of medicine. 

The universitv at Leyden was noted for its interest in the study of 
sciences, especially the science of chemistry, but chemicals were then 
but little used as curatives, herb constituting a large proportion of the 
natirial used in the healing of diseases. 

The lirst medical school in America was founded in Philadelj)hia in 
17(>5, in which Drs. Shippen and Morgan were Professors. Two years 
later New York established her first school of medicine in connection 
with King-"s College. But few students entei-ed upon the work, however, 
as is proven by the records which show that only eleven degrees were 
conferred prior to the war of the Revidution, when studies in that depart- 
ment were suspended until 1784. From 1792 to 1816, a Medical Depart- 
ment of Uueen's College, New Brunswick, was located in New York. 
Its location in the city is explained by the fact that the founders, D.'-. 
Nicholas Romaine and associates having failed to place in New York, 
with the institution they desired, applied and secured authority under 
the charter of (Jueen's College to perfect their organizati<m. In 1S25 



HISTOKV OK HKKC.KN COVNTY 7') 

Princctiin undertook a Medical l)e])artnient. in which Ur. ^'a^ ("iove. a 
<listiug'uished physician took an active interest, I>nt his death caused a 
delay in its establishment. 

New Jersey claims to have been the first of the colonies to ortran- 
ize a Medical Association. The Medical Society of New Jersey have in 
their possession, the well preserved oriifinal Ixiok of minutes of that or- 
g'anization. The first meeting was held at the house of a Mr. DulT in 
New Brimswick, wliere sixteen ])hysicians met nn the 23rd day of Julv 
17(>(), and formed themselves into a " Standiuir Society and Voluiitary 
Incorporatiim," and sijrned the '"Instruments of Association arid Consti 
tution of the Medical Society of Ne\y Jersey."" The names ni thos ■ who 
signed these instruments were Robert McKean, Liiris. Manlove. John 
Cochran, Moses Bhxmifield, James (iilliland, William Burnet. Jmia. 
Uayton, Thomas Wig-gins, Williams Adams. Bern. Budd, Lawrence \'. 
Deryeer, John Griffith. Isaac Harris and Joseph Sackett. Jr. The meet- 
ings of the Society were hold semi-annually, uninterruptedly unlil 177.^. 
when the Reyolution interfered and no meeting was again held until 
17S2. Again from 1795 until 1S(I7 a cessation occured. 

In 1790 another society was forme<i in East Jersey known as the 
"Medical Society of the Eastern District of New Jersey." 

Dr. Micheau, of Klizabethtown, was the prime mover in this n/w 
society which, for a time, dre\y chielly fr.mi East Jersey, be:ause of the 
majority of the physicians being located on that side. In time, howe\-er, 
the tirst society gained control, which it has ever afterwards held. 

In 1771 the Medical Society of New Jersey petitioned the Assembly 
for an act "Regulating the practice of medicine,"" and restdved "That 
members of the society get petitions signed by the res])ectable inhabi- 
tants of their neighborhoods,"' and send these to the care of the com- 
mittee <d" the society charged with the prosecution of the measure be- 
fore the Legislature. This act wa-. adopted in Septemlier. 1772 A 
table of rates and fees was now arranged, which was ])ractically the 
basis of charges until 17S4, when it was unanimously adopted. It i> a 
piece of interesting reading. Medicine, as a science, is of comi)arative]y 
recent date. It was not until 1754 that lectures to students was first in- 
troduced. Dr. William Hunter, of Newport. R. I.. In-ing the first to 
use them as a means of instruction, the lirst instruction in dissection 
having been given prior to that time by Dr. Bard of Middletown, in 
New York City. 

The Provincial or State Society exerted a healthful influence, and 
soon district societies began to spring up in dilTerent parts of the State. 

Bergen County, owing ])robably to its close proximity to New York. 
Newark and Elizabethtown. had few physicians until a later date than 
many other ccmnties. Joseph Sackett. Jr., who ]>racticed at Paranius 
during the Rey(dution. is the <mly member from Bergen County whose 
name is on the ndl of the society until 179(>. 

The earliest physician of whom we can lind any record, in Bergen 
County, was Dr. Van Kmburgh. He lived prior to 17u'i, as is attested 



■"^O HISTOKV OF BERGEN COUNTY 

I)y the deed to his widow, u^iven by her friend Sarah Sandford dated De- 
cember 7, 170''. The land so i^iveii was probably bestowed purely out 
of friendship, and consisted in all of ahoui six hundred acres of land. 

Dr. Abraham Van Boskirk was a surgeon in the First Militia of 
Eero-en County, and (m May I2th, 1775, was one of the committee of 
correspondence for Bergen County of which John Fell was chairman. 
Dr. .loseph Sackett was Ijorn Febru;iry 1(), 1733, O. S., and was one of 
the original charter members of the New Jersey Medical Society, taking 
an actiye part until 1772 when he remoyed to Newton, I^. I. Dr. John 
Campbell, who was a physician in Hackensack after the I'^evolution, 
was a son of Archibald Campbell, wlio was adyised by Washington to 
"kee]) neutral" and stay by his family. Dr. Campbell was born Febru- 
Mry 1.^, 1770. He spent his life in Hackensack. He died in 1814, and 
is buried in Hackensack by the side of his wife w'ho died in 1853. Jo- 
siah Hornblower. a brother of Chief Justice Joseph C. Hornbhrn-er, of 
the vSupreme Court of New Jersey, practiced medicine in Bergen County 
in 17s'>. Dr. Hornblower was born at Belleyille May 23, 1767. He 
studied medicine with Dr. Thomas Steele of Belleyille, and began prac- 
fice in the town of Bergen in 178'). His practice extended over a large 
expanse of country- covering- Hudson County, including the old Town- 
slii]! of Hackensack, Fort Lee, with a considerable practice in Staten 
Island. He was appointed surgeon in the War of 1812, and was assigned 
to duty at the old arsenal on the heights. He was twice married, his 
lirst wife being Annetje Merselis, who became the mother of six chil- 
dren. His second wife, Hannah Town, had two children. He died at 
th.e good old age of eighty-one years, having been in active practice in 
Bergen County for a period of fifty-five years. Two of his sons, Wil- 
liam and Josiali became physicians, and three of his sons-in-law, Doctors 
DeWitt, (iautier and Zabriskie were also physicians .as were two of his 
grandsons, the sons of William. The family was thus widely repre- 
sented in the profession. Cornelius Blauvelt was a practitioner in Hack- 
ensack in ISl'). 

It was not until 1854 that the District Medical Society of Bergen 
County, was organized. A meeting for this purpose was held in the 
Washington Institute Building, in Hackensack, on February 28, where 
the licensed physicians and surgeons met by authority of the Medical 
Society of New Jersey, through a conimissi(jn issued for that purpose. 
Those present ^ve^e Drs. William H. Day. Charles Hasbrouck, George 
B. Brown, Henry A. Hopper and DuBois Hasbrouck. The meeting was 
organized by making W^. H. Day, M. D., President, and Dr. Henry A. 
Hopper, Secretary. William H. Day was elected the first president of 
the Society and Charles Hasbrouck secretary. 

The Society held no meetings from 1858 to 1S()S, when a re-organi- 
zation took place and the by-laws were revised. 

KOLI, OF .MEMDl'.KS A D.M FrTl-; 1) V \' TO lS7ll. 

A. Hopper, 1854; W. H. Day, 1854; C. Hasbrouck. 1854; H. A. 
Ilopier. 1S44; (1. B. Fh-own, 1854; D. Hasbrouck, 1S54 ; A. S. Burdett, 



HISTOKV OF lUvKl.lCX COINTV 81 



1854; B. Oblenis. 1855; J. J. Harin-r, ISSh; I. J. Well, lSf.8; W. II. 
Hall, 18(.S: J. T. Dvimiiid; Isr.S; H. (\ Noer, 18(>8; F. M. Wrig-ht, 
1S()8; J. M. Simpson, 1S(,<); R. Stewart. 1S(,<); S. J. Zabriskie, 1870; 
A. P. Williams, 187U; H. A. Crary, 1871; W. Fr.incis. 1,S71: I). A. 
Currie, 1872; M. S. Avers, 1872; I). C. C'.irr. 1874; (i. K. Simi)s..ii, 
1874; F. A. Davis, 1874; A. Clendinen, 1875. 

PRESENT MEIIBEKS AM) SCHOOLS AT WHICH THI•^• KMCCKIVKD THEIK DKf. NiaC. 

Henry A. Hopper, Colleg-e Physicians and Surgeons, New York. 
1847; A. S. Burdett, College Physicians and Surgeons, New York, 1S52: 
H. C. Neer, Berkshire Medical College, 1860; D. Augustus Currie, Uni- 
versity of Buffalo, 1864; University of Kdinburgh. 18f>7; M. S. Avers, 
Long Island College, 1871; G. C. Terhune, New York Medical College, 
1853; Charles H. Hasbrouck, College Physicians and Surgeons, Fair- 
field, New York, 1839; D. St. John, Bellevue, 1875; Alexander Clendinen, 
University of Maryland, 1859; Milton Terhune, Kentucky School of 
Medicine, lf)76; J. M. Simpson, Bellevue; 186f>; S. J. Zabriskie, Uni- 
versity Medical College, New York, 185f); J. J. Haring, Jefferson Medi- 
cal College, 1855; A. P. Williams, College Physicians and Surgeons. 
New York, 18f>0; E. M. Garton, University Medical College, 1878; G. R. 
Brown, College Physicians and Surgeons, New York, 1875; C. L. 
Demarest, Bellevue, 1876; Thomas Reid, University Medical College, 
New York, 1876. 

Presidents: 1854, William H. Dav; 1855-'56, Abraham Hopj)er; 
1857, William H. Day; 1858, I. J. Wells; 18()8, Charles Hasbrouck; 
1869-70, A. S. Burdett; 1871-72, John .1. Ilaring; 1873, F. Marc 
Wright; 1874, H. C. Neer; 1875, A. S. liurdett : 187(), D. Augustus 
Currie; i877, Henry A. Hopper; 1878, A. S. Burdett; i879, S. J. Za- 
briskie; i880, Milton Turmure; i88i. Henry A. Hopper; i882, II. A. 
Hopper; i883, D. St. John ; i884, M. S. Ayers ; i885, Milton Turnnn-e; 
1 886, John W. Hopper ; i8S7, J. W. Terry ; iS88, Wni. II. O. Tayli>r ; 
1 889, Lewis Parsells ; i89(l, John A. Willis; i8"»i, M.S. Ayers; rS92. 
H. C. Neer ; Samuel A. Armstrong ; i8'M, .1. W. B. Lansing ; i8"»5, \V. 
L. Vroom ; i896. Hardy M. Banks: i8'»7, L. B. Parsells: i8')8, Howard 
McFadden; i899, Chas. Calhoun. 

Secretaries: i854-58, Charles Hasbrouck; i868, I.J.Wells; i8(.9. 
J. T. DeMund ; 1 870-76, Charles Hasbrouck; iS77-'78. A. S. Burdett; 
1879, Henrv A. Hoi)])er ; i880, Alexander CK'udinen : i88i-'9't inclusive, 
1). A. Currie ; i8S2-'9'», Dr. David St. John, 'i'reasurer. 

THE BEKCEN CorNTV I'A KM IsNS' MrTl'AI. KIKE INSURANCE COiVIPANV. 

This institution is located at Oradell, Bergen county. N. J. It was 
incorporated May i, i849, by the following named persons: Jacob 
Van Buskirk, Nicholas C. Durie, Charles Hasbrouck, Benjamin Z. Van 
Emburgh, David A. (J. Demarest, John G. Demarest, Isaac D. Demarest. 
Garret S. Demarest, Henry N. Voorhis, George T. Brickeli, (Barrett A. 
Eckerson, Henry H. Voorhis. .Ir.. John Ackcrman, Jr. 



82 HISTOKV OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

The Compan}- was org'anized wtih Garret S. Demarest as president, 
and Henry H. Voorhis as secretary. These g-entlemen occupied these 
positions respectively many years. The company insures farm and other 
property for cash premiums only. The present officers of the company 
are as follows: Abram C. Holdrum, President: John T. Haring, Vice- 
President: Elmer Blauvelt, Secretary: Ilaniel I. Demarest, Treasurer. 



CHAPTER XIII. 
INTERNAL IMPK( )VEMENTS. 

DOKOrCHS. 

Bergen county is diviiK-d into fifteen townships, thirty-five V)or- 
oughs and has one city and one incorporated villag-e. The fxiroiigh 
formation comes under the law of iS7S, having for its object the secur- 
ing of certain improvements in water, lights, sewerage, roads, etc. 
Under this law each borough thus formed had the right of electing free- 
holders to the County Council. Subsequent enactments, however, an- 
nulled the right, but, nevertheless, boroughs formed parts of different 
townships, and had a right to elect freeholders until the law of May. 
1894, annulled this privilege only under certain cases. Under the old 
law of 1878, citizens of municipalities secured the formation of their 
Ijorough by petiticm, a certain number representing the taxable list of 
the community having the right to petition. Under the present regime 
the Legislature creates a borough. 

Following we have a list of the boroughs of the county, the sjiecial 
history of each being found in the respective localities in which the 
borough exists: 

North Arlington, Rutherford, East Rutherford. Wallington, Carl- 
stadt, Woodridge, Hasbrouck Heights, Lodi, Little Ferry, Ridgetield. 
Leonia, Undercliff, Palisade Park, Fairview, Bogota, Englewood Cliffs, 
Tenafly, Cresskill, Bergentiekls, Schraalenlnirgh, Old Tappan, May- 
wood, Uelford, Riverside,' Westwood, Woodcliff, Parkridge, Montvale, 
Allendale, Midland, Upper Saddle River, Lower Saddle River. Midland 
Park, (ilen Rock and (iarfield. 

KOADS. 

The first Commissioners of Highways for Bergen county, and tin- 
first known to have been appointed in the State were John Berry, Law- 
rence Andries (Van Boskirk), Enoch Micliielsen i \'reeland i, Hans 
Diedricks, Michael Smith, Hendrick Van Ostruni and Claes.lans en 
Van Purmerendt. They were appointed by an act of the ( General As- 
sembly, and it is doubtful if there exists anywhere i record of their pro- 
ceedings. They apjiear to have held office a long time, for in ff.'M (ler- 
brand Claesen was apjjointed in the place of Van Purmeren<lt. 

Hv resolution of the (ieneral Assembly, ado])ted Sei)teml)er '>. 17(i4. 
the (irand Jurv nf each and every county was authorized to ap])oint 
yearly at the February and March terms of court, with the approval of 
the bench, two persons in each county. ])recinc't, district or township, to 
lav out all necessary cross-roads and l)y-roads, which were to be four rods 
wide, and -also "to settle" other matters pertaining to the highways. 

Beginning with the old-lime wagon roads, the first in the county of 
Berx-en was the one leading from Comnuinipaw In the village ol liergen. 



84 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

The road was probably laid about the year l*i()(i. On the .>d of June, 
i7i8, a road was laid out from Cromkili to Weehawken Ferry, which Mr. 
Wintield is of the opinion was part of the present Hackensack turnpike. 

The road from Berg'en to Bergen Point was the old King's High- 
way, but the date of its construction is unknown. In 1743 James Alex- 
ander, of the Council, reported a bill for continuing the King's High- 
way to some convenient point on the Hudson, but the bill was not passed. 
On October 10. 1764, a King's highway was laid out from Hendrick 
Sickles' barn to a point opposite the Dutch Church, on Staten Island, 
and the old road was abandoned. The new road became a part of the 
great stage roiite from New York to Philadelphia. The Hackensack 
turnpike was constructed in 1S04 by the Bergen Turnpike Company, 
incorporated November M). 1S(I2, to build this road from Hoboken to 
Hackensack. 

The road from Paulis Hook to Newark over the Hackensack and 
Passaic Rivers was built in 17b5, and was the only thoroughfare from the 
Hudson to Essex county for nearly thirty years. The road first known 
as the New Barbadoes turnpike, but subsequently as the New York and 
Paterson turnpike, was surveyed and constructed in 1816. This road ori- 
ginally divided the township of Union from Lodi, and passed through 
Passaic, and objective points being Paterson and Hoboken. 

The Belleville turnpike though not one of the oldest roads in the 
county, is a much travelled one, and is the boundary between Hudson 
and Bergen counties. The old Pollifly road was one of the tirst in the 
county, also, and was opened over two hundred years ago. It runs irom 
Hudson county through the old townships of Union and Lodi. The 
Paterson and Jerse}- City plank road was completed about 1S20; the 
Hackensack and Paterson road in 1826, and soon after, the road leading 
from Hackensack to Little Ferry was constructed. About the year IS.^o 
the road from Lodi village to the Polliily road was opened. The road 
following the course of the Passaic River, now designated as the Passaic 
Valley road, was an early highway opened long before the war of the 
Revolution. The Indians called the northern portion of this highway 
the Wagara road and the southern division as Slauter Dam road. 

The Paramus road running from Pompton to Hoboken was asso- 
ciated with the historic days of the Revolution. It was the thoroughfare 
of the old Goshen and Hoboken stage line, and created a demand for the 
numerous taverns which lined its course. This road came through New- 
burgh. N. Y., to Closter, and passed through Old Hook to Westwood and 
from thence southwest to Paramus. 

The Stone Arabia road beginning at Hackensack and following a 
northeastly, then a northerly direction to Rockland county, N. Y., was 
an imjjortant thoroughfare during the early part of the present century, 
as was also the Spring Valley road, which was opened about the sam 
time, and run through the central part of Midland township, north. 

The Wieremus road, so christened by the Indians who in early times 
followed it as a trail, ran throusih Pascack Ridgfe to New York State 



mSTOUY ()1- BKKC.KN COl-NTY }S5 

-and was also cuii' of llu- iiiiinirtain roads in tlic norllu-rn ])ortion of Hvi- 
ufcn County. 

ThosL' aro a ffw of thv earliest roadways in In'r^^on Conntv import- 
ant iu this (.'onnLx-tion only because of ilu'ir use in colonial and Kevolu- 
tionary days. 

That New Jersey is a friend to yood roads is shown liv the report of 
State Commissioner lUuld. During the last year eif^ditv-l'ive miles of 
new roads have been built under State aid. makini;- three hundred and 
citrhty-tive miles, since the State made ajipropriations for the ]iur]>ose in 
1S'»3, at total cost beino- 3.s().s.82(>. 

Berji^en County excels in its roadways, in fact thev constitute an 
interesting- feature <»f the county, the <irives bein^ -iiual to the shell roads 
of the South and West. 

The various trolley lines running through Jiergen Countv are fast 
changing not only the old m<idc of tTa\-el. but .ire ,ilso o])ening up new 
fields for country homes which steam car lines fail to reach. 

The Bergen County Traction Coni])any was formed M.arch d, IS'W,. 
The President of this road is William T. Harrows. The road runs from 
Undercliff to Englewood. A branch line from Leonia to Hackens.ack is 
now in operatiim. 

The Hudson County Railway was built in IS"),^. then known as the 
Palisade Railroad. This trolley line enters the countv at Hudson 
Heights and extends as far north as Covtes\-ille. David 'S'oung is its 
President. 

The Rutherford an<l Hackensack trolley line was built in 1S<)7. It 
begins at Arlington and is built as far as Woodridge. ( )n .January 27. 
1894, this road was sold to William C. Ciles for the lN!e-organization 
Committee representing *>() j)er cent, of the bond holders. It is intended 
now to build the road to Hackensack. The Hoboken. Passaic and I'at- 
erson trolley line was built recently. It runs through the places named 
its title and is an im])ortant ro.ad and does a large Imsiness. 

I'l: K'kTIiS. 

The ferries which connect the old iiortion of Bergen County with 
New York City are numerous. There are f 1 ) the Comnninipaw. ' 2 ' the 
Weehawken, (3) the Jersey City, i4i the Hoboken, i .s ■ the I'avonia. 
Besides these, are still in operation, there were several others ol an early 
date which have long ceased to exist. These latter were Bndil's Dock, 
in HarsimusCove to New York, establislu'd in 1S02. and contimied a few 
years ; Bull's Ferry, at the u]>per line of the jM-eseut e'onntv of Hudson, 
well known during th^' Revolution, which took its name from a f.imilv 
by the name of Hull residing there-. Wintield gives the names of the 
lessees of this ferry as follows : Cornelius Huyley, 177S-"'*2: 'Plu'odore 
Brower, 17't2-180.s ; (iarret Neefie, ISO.S; L.-wisConcklin, 1S(I(, ; Abraham 
Huyler, 18(18. 

De Klyn's Ferry was started by John Towne and Harnet I )e Klyn, 
from the wharf ^ south and north) of the State Prison to Hoboken in 



86 HISTOKV OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

I'i'H,. No record is found of this ferry later than ISOh. 

F<ir many years the farmers and others in the northern i)art of Ber- 
gen County reached New York by means of the Weehawken Ferry 
established by Samuel Bayard about the year 1700. The charter for 
this ferry was g-ranted by George II in 1752 to Stephen Bayard. 

The Hoboken Ferry was established to connect the Corporation 
Dock at the "Bear Market," in New York with Hoboken in 1774, and 
was leased to H. Tallman for /^5(> a year. During the Revolution this 
ferry was subject to the army occupying New York. In 1789, the ferry 
Was owned by John Stevens, the proprietor of the Hoboken. In 1811 
Mr. Stevens completed a boat, which he put on trial in September, 
announcing " the trial trip of the first steam ferry boat in the world." 

The Pavonia Ferry was established by letters patent from King 
(leorge II, January 17, 17.^,>, to Archibald Kennedy his heirs and assigns. 

Dows Ferry over the Hackensack, a little north of the New Jersey 
Railroad was a noted place during the Revolution. Mr. Winiield thinks 
it was constructed about the time that Colonel John Schuyler constructed 
Belleville turnpike, during the French War, and that it remained in 
operation until superseded by the bridge erected in 1794. It received its 
name from John Douw, a friend of Colonel Schuyler. The ferry and 
Douw's tavern were on the west side of the Hackensack. It was at this 
ferry that boats had been provided on the night of Major Lee's attack 
on Paulus Hook to facilitate the retreat of his forces. The ferry Jersey 
Cit3- was established June IS. 1S(>4. 

KAII.KOADS. 

The first railroad in America was laid in old Bergen County. Mr. 
L. y. C. Elmer, of Bridgeton, N. J., says in the Springfield Republican. 
"Reading the very interesting account of the Hoosic Tunnel in your 
paper of November 28th, I find a new illustration of the difficulty of ob- 
taining correct historical data. The writer states that in 182(> Dr. 
Phelps presented the first proposition ever made for a railroad before 
any legislative body in the United States. This is a mistake. About 
April, 1811, Colonel John Stevens, of Hoboken, N. J., presented a mem- 
orial to the Legislature to authorize a railroad in New Jersey, and in 
February, 1815, a law was passed incorporating 'The New Jersey Rail- 
roa<l Company, authorizing a road from Trenton to New Brunswick.' 
This road was not built. In 1S2(I I saw at Hoboken Colonel Stevens' 
short railroad, laid as an experiment. Locomotive steam-engines had 
not been perfected, and the best engineers did not sujjpose there would 
be sufficient traction in plain wheels to draw a heavy weight. The 
railway put uj) by Stevens was pro\ ided with a middle rail having teeth 
for a driving-track. This gentleman was father oi the Messrs. Stevens 
who built the tirst railroad in New- Jersey by virtue of the Act of 1842. 
He entered into competition with Fulton to run the tirst steamboat on 
the waters of the Hudson, and thus obtained the mcraopoly granted by 
the law of Nt-w York, but falling a little behind in time, he sent his 



HisToin' oi- 1!i;k(; i:n corxTv 87 

boat round to the Delaware, and I was carried hv her in 1S12. The 
family maintained a line of boats on the Delaware individually or bv the 
eompany until their death." 

The Paterson and Hudson Kiver Railroad Company \vas incorpor- 
ated January 21, 18,il. The road went into ojieration between Paterson 
and Aquackanonk (now Passaic) June 22, 1S,>2. The rollin^--stock at 
that time consisted of "three splendid and commodious cars, each caj)- 
able of accommodating thirty passengers," which were drawn by " fleet 
and gentle horses." It was thought to bj a " rapid and delightful m > le 
of trayeling." The trial-trip oyer that part of the road was June 7, 
1832. It connected with the New Jersey Railroad at West End. The 
road was leased to the Union Railroad Company September '». IS.^2. 
This lease was assigned to the Erie Railway Company, and the road is 
now part of the main line of the New York, Lake Erie and Western 
Railroad. The assignment and transfer (d' the road was conlirmed by 
the Legislature March 14, 1.S53. 

The Erie Railway Company was first recognized by the laws of New 
Jersey, March 14, 1853, as the Ne\y York and Erie Railroad Company, 
then as the Erie Railway Company. After leasing the Paterson and 
Hudson Riyer Railroad and the Paterson and Ramapo Railroad, which 
two roads formed a direct line from Jersey City to Sufferns, Piermont 
was abandoned as a terminus, and the cars were run to the depot of the 
New^ Jersey Railroad Company in Jersey City until May, 18(i2. "The 
Long Dock Company," incorporated February 2(>. 185(), in the iiiterLst 
of the Erie Railway Company, completed the Bergen Tunnel January 
28, 1861. The first passenger train ])assed through it May 1, 1S(,1. at 
which date the Erie traffic was transferred to its present termiinis at 
Ltmg Dock. In 1865 the Erie Company C(mstructed a telegrajjh line 
through the Bergen Tunnel, so that managers of signals at either end 
could be duly warned of approaching trains, and collision thus ayoided. 
The interior of the Bergen Tunnel was arched over in 18(>7. 

The New York and Oswego Midland Railroad C()in])any was incor- 
porated January 1, 186(.. Construction began June 2't. ISdS. The first 
train ran over the western end of the road November 5, 1S(>'), and the 
first through train August 18, 1873. 

On M<mday, December 19, 1871, the first locomotive was put on the 
New Jersey Midland at Hawthorne, a station on the ICrie. one mile from 
Paterson. The locomotive was built at the Roger-" Locomotive Works 
in the City of Paterson, and was named the "Passaic." Another loco- 
motive put up(m the road the following July was named " Bergen." this 
plan of naming the locomotives after the counties traversed l)y the road 
being ado])ted by the company. 

The New Jersey Midland Comi)any was incorporated March IS. 
1867. March 18, 1870, it was announced that S75,(MKI had been sub- 
scribed by those interested in having the road go through Hackcnsack. 
Additional sums .were subsequently raised, increasing the amount to 
S100,0(MI, the sum required to lie raised by Hackcnsack and vicinity. 



S8 r-IISTOKY OI-' BI-KGUX COTXTY 

Other liberal sums were contributed along the entire route. On Mon- 
day-, March 18, 1872, the first passenger train ran through between 
Hackensack and Paterson, at 8.30 a. ni., carrying about thirty passen- 
gers. After thaftrains ran regularly. 

The Hackensack and New York Railroad Company was incorporated 
March 14, 1856. Work was begun on the road in the spring of 18(i'J. It 
was opened northward to Hillsdale, twenty-one miles from New York, 
and the first excursion train ran over it on Saturday, the 4th of March, 
lS7i). The officers of the n^ad at that time were D. P. Patterson, Presi- 
dent; G. S. Demarest, Vice President; H. G. Herring, Secretary, and 
J. D. Demarest, Treasurer. The extension of the road to Grassy Point, 
about two miles above Haverstraw, on the Hudson, was chartered by 
the New York Legislature in the spring of 1870, and during the fall was 
put under contract to Messrs. Ward e^' Lary for construction. From 
a report made in January, 1872, we learn that through the untiring ex- 
ertions of Mr. J. A. Bogert, at Xanuet. S'Ml.tKH) had been subscribed, over 
S4(), ()()() of which had been paiil in. Subscripti(ms also to the am<mnt of 
S230,(»0() had been secured by Mr. Patterson, the President of the com- 
pany, and of this sum S130,()(H) had been i)ai(l in. At the northern ter- 
minus at (irassj^ Point the company received a donation of 250(1 feet of 
river' frontage from Mr. David Munro. The eastern terminus of this 
road is' in the Erie depot, at I.,<ing Dock, and it is under the same man- 
agement as the Erie. 

The Northern Railroad Com])any of New .lersey was chartered 
February •) 1854, and the road was completed October 1st, 185'). 
In 18(>'» it was leased to the Erie Railway Company. This road 
], asses through the eastern part of Bergen County, along the table- 
land of the Palisades, many porti(ms of which it has been the 
means nf redeeming from forests and converting- into beautiful parks 
and villas. Englewood, on this road, one of the most delightful suburbs 
of New York, has been entirely l)uilt up since the road was opened. 

The Jersey City and Albany Railroad was opened to Tappan July 
.>Oth, 1873. This road passes thnmgh Bergen County from the Midland, 
at Ridgefield Park, in a directiuu nearly parallel with the Northern 
road. 



CHAPTER XIV. 
SCHOOLS. 

KDUCATIONAL KKPOKT. 

The first apportionment of the school fund of the State was made 
to Berg-en county by the trustees in 1S31 and consisting- of one thousand, 
two hundred and ninety-nine dollars and ninet3--two cents. Benjamin 
Zabriskie and Cornelius Van Winkle were appointed a committee of the 
board of Chosen Freeholders to apportion the am<junt among the several 
townships which resulted as follows: Bergen, S214.56; Lodi, Sl()8.38; 
Saddle River, S168.19; New Barbadoes, S't4.10; Hackensack, S142.')4; 
Harrington, S226.55 ; Franklin, S181.55; Pompton, S163.65. 

The Legislature of New Jersey passed an Act in 1837 appropriating 
the surplus revenues of the general government for school purposes in 
the several counties of the State, placing the several amounts appor- 
tioned to the counties under the management of the respective hoards of 
Chosen Freeholders. 

A report made to the board on the 2d day of May, 1838, showed that 
the sum of $41,182.14, surplus revenue, had been recsived from the State 
treasurer, and that the same had been loaned out in various sums through 
the county. The interest on this money has been collected annually on 
the 1st of May and devoted to the support of public schools. 

Upon the division of the county the following adjustment was made 
of the surplus revenue : 

TOWNSHIPS. STATE TAX. COUNTY TAX. TOTAL. 

Bergen, including Jersey City S()(.4.75 S1047.44 S1712.K. 

Lodi. 252.40 (.58.()5 ')11.(I5 

Saddle River 324.34 875.57 ll"»'i.'»l 

Hackensack 2(.7.')() S3().(.5 l(i'>8.55 

Harrington 34(..12 1127.44 1473. 5(, 

P>anklin. 2't2.57 874.18 11(.(..75 

New Barbadoes 201.82 457.80 (.5').(i2 

Pompton. 142.84 381.54 524.».8 

West Milford. 147.35 370.43 523.78 

S2f)40.()() Sf)f)30.()0 S')270.()r. 

Before the division ot the surplus revenue took place the towns of 
West Milford, Pomjjton and a part of Saddle River was annexed to 
Passaic County, leaving the sums from these towns to be deducted there 
from. The County of Hudson having been erected February 22, 1840, 
the sums allotted to the towns of Bergen and Jersey City, and a part of 
Lodi, under the names of Harrison were also to be deducted. 

After the division of the county in 1840 the amount apportioned 
from the school fund was SIOOO.. 50, divided among the townships as fol- 
l<iws, and so remained until the new school ajjpropriation was made: 



<>0 HISTOKV OF BEKGEX COUXTY 

NewBarbadoes, S13S.(><>; Lodi, S()f).45 ; Saddle River, S52. 41 ; Hack- 
ensack. S334,09 : Franklin. ?21i). 02 ; Washington. 8174.19 ; Harrington. 
SI IS. 7.^. 

The interest on the surj)lus revenue began to be available for school 
purpi)ses May 1. IS.^S. The sum of S140;i had then ac:rued, and was 
divided among the townships as follows: 

Lodi. Sl(>4.40 ; Hackensack, S174.50 ; Franklin Sl<){). 5ft ; Saddle Kiver. 
SSO.<(() ; Harrington, S225.3ft ; NewBarbadoes, §131.40 ; Bergen. S2')S.70; 
Jersey City, S134.12. In 1839 the interest on the fund amounted to S2-. 
ft.^5.38. In 1840 the interest was S3, 112.05. 

Continuing the history, John Terhune. Superintendent of Bergen 
County Schools, says : 

"Prior to 18ft7 the schools of Bergen County were in ])art free. 
They were under township superyisi<m, and the buildings in rural dis- 
tricts were of a yery primitive type. 

The report of the State Board of Education for 18ft(>. which was the 
last year of the township method of Superintendents, gives the total 
population in the nine townships 21,ftiy, and the school census ft, 888. 
The total amount of money to be expended was twenty-five thousand, 
seven hundred, forty dollars and seventy-four cents, received from the 
following sources : Raised by tax, eleven thousand, twenty-nine dollars 
and eighty-one cents ; from State three thousand, fifteen dollars and 
thirty-nine cents ; other sources one thousand, six hundred, twenty-two 
dollars and forty-two cents; raised for building and repairing two thousand, 
seven hundred, seventy dollars and ninety-nine cents ; from tuiticm fees, 
seven thousand, five hundred, forty-six dollars and seventeen cents. 
There were thirty-seven male teachers at an average salary of forty- 
three dollars per month, and thirty-eight female teachers at an average 
salary of thirty-two dollars per month. There were fifty-five schools, 
seven of which were free. 

The office of County Superintendent was created by Act of the Leg- 
islature, approved March 21st, 18ft7. Under this syetem the number of 
schools in 1899 is one hundred and four with three hundred and niaeteen 
teachej-s, of which sixty-two are males at an average monthly salary of 
ninetj'-three dollars and sixty-four cents, and two hundred and fifty-seven 
females with an average salary of fifty-two dollars and sixty-one cents. 
The total amount of monies lo be expended the present year is as follows : 

Balances, S53,Sftft. 57 ; apportioned by County Superintendent, S130.- 
984.89; raised by district tax 5232,143.59 ; from State for Manual train- 
ing 33,200.00, making a total of 8420,195.05. The school census for 
1898 was 88,028. The- school buildings with but few exceptions are 
scientifically lighted, heated, ventilated and decorated ; and the grounds 
as a rule are planted with shade trees and flower beds, due to Arbor Day. 
This day was set apart by law in 1884, and has caused much improve- 
ment in school surroundings. The Arbor Day programmes' issued by 
the present Superintendent, John Terhune, have become popular,- and are 
used in nearly every county in the state. 



HISTOKV Ol' liKKT.lCN COTNTV 'Jl 

At the last anniversary, held April 2Sth. there were 4271 visitors in 
attendance in the several schools of this county. 

The school library question has also iinproved under his administra- 
tion, and the number of books taken out increased from .^5(il in ISSS. to 
f)5.421 in 18')9. They are now an indispensable factor in the education 
of the children. 

Bergen County was the first to establish a ]>rofessiunal library for 
teachers, which now c<intains 140(1 \-(ilumes uf peda^-o<,rical books. It 
was the first county to secure an office which now is an educational 
centre, and contains numerous cabinets of school work for ins])ection. a 
model school library, a teachers' library, and. besicbs, is ;ui object lesson 
in school decoration. Copies o{ tlie most important school periodicals 
and school devices are found at this office, known as Educational Hall, 
and it is constantly visited by teachers and educators. 

A uniform course of study for primary and grammar gr.ades has 
been in operation since 18"^)5, and the work in general is being done sys- 
tematically and progressively. There are now fifty-five school districts, 
of which eighteen are t<;iwnshi])s. thirty-four ari' boroughs, two are 
special charters and one a citv. 



CHAPTER XV. 
NKW BARBADOES. 

ANCIENT AND MODEKN BOUNDAKIES — EARLY SETTLEMENT — CIVIL OKGAN- 

IZATION — FKEEHOLDERS HACKENSACK — ITS SCHOOLS, CHURCHES, 

NEWSPAPERS, HOSPITAL, IMPROVEMENT COMMISSION, SOCI- 
ETIES, LODGES AND CLUBS, BANKS, MILITARY, MANI- 
FACTUKES — BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 

In 1()')3, two centuries ago, New Barbadoes was a township in Essex 
County, and comprised the territory lying between the Hackensack 
and Passaic Rivers, from Newark Bay on the southeast to the present 
boundary line of Sussex County. The present boundaries are limited to 
New Bridge on the north and Little Ferry on the south, with an average 
width of about two miles on the west side of the Hackensack River, the 
whole length being only about iive miles. Along the Hackensack the 
land is generally level, in some places below high tide, rising to a greater 
elevation in the western portion. There are some marsh lands, but they 
are mostly capable of cultivatit)n. The clay lands are valuable from 
their proximity to the Hackensack River, and much of this land is under 
a high state of cultivation, while the clay is extensively used in the 
manufacture of brick. 

The Hackensack River, which is navigable to New Bridge, is well 
ccmfined within its banks, varying in width from one hundred to five 
hundred feet. The origin of the name "New Barbadoes" is more a matter 
of conjecture than of history. It is supposed, however, that the earliest 
proprietors of the township, who emigrated from the islands of Barba- 
does, gave the name by prefixing "New" to the name of their former 
home. In 1868 Captain William Sandford secured a title to 15,308 acres 
of land running northward from the junction of the Hackensack and 
Passaic Rivers. Captain John Berry, and others associated with him, 
secured a title to all the land north of the Sandford possessions, compris- 
ing the territory within the limits of Hackensack and the present town- 
ship of New Barbadoes. It is not known at what date Captain Berry 
came to the province, although he became possessor of the land in lf>()'). 
There are deeds recorded in the Clerk's Ofi&ce in Hackensack giving by 
him and dated 1696, showing that he was living and able to transact 
business at that time. Captain Berry's son-in-law, Michael Smith, who 
was the first Sheriff of Bergen County, 1683, owned a plantation adjoin- 
ing that of Captain Berry, and it is probable that these were the first 
lands in the township which had any considerable improvements, espe- 
cially since these are prominently mentioned in a historical and descrip- 
tive account published in Edinburgh in 1685, by George Scott. 

The island of Barbadoes became an English possession in 1()25. 
Both Captain Sandford and Captain Berry were Englishmen, and both 



HISTOKY OK BKKCKN COl'N'TY <J3 



came from the West Indies. Ciiptain Berry may Ii.ivc iHcn. assdiiie mi]!- 
posed. captain of a merchant vessel, hut it is a matter of reeurd that h^' 
was a Captain of Militia in Berg^en t'ountv. 

Captain Sandford lived in Newark in loVS, and was a meinher of the 
Provincial Council from 1681-84. He died in 1(.'»2, havinf^ requested to 
he huried on his own plantation. His children were Ardinah, who mar- 
ried Richard Berry, Constable of New Barhadoes in 16<)5; Pereiifrine, 
who married Fytje, daug-hter of Enoch Michielse ( Vreeland i; William, 
Grace and Elizabeth, who married Captain James Davis. 

CUII. ORGANIZATION. 

The civil organization of this township was effected in l()K,s. when 
the (ieneral Assembly at Perth Amboy passed an act empowering the 
inhabitants of Hackensack and New Barhadoes ti. build pounds, "the 
charge whereof to be paid by the inhaliitants of each of the respective 
out plantations." This was in the fourth year of the reign of James H. 
In 1()<»2 the fourth year of the reign of William and Mary, an act was 
passed bv the General Assembly at Perth Amboy, dividing the counties 
of East Jersey into townships. This act was so defective in its provis- 
ions as to become inoperative, and a supplementary act was passed in 
169,'?, by which the Townships of "Acquikanick and New Barhadoes." 
were know for the first time in legislation, having apparent] v l)een 
united to form one township. The boundaries included "all the land 
on Pissiack River above the third river, ( Yantacaw i and fr<mi the mouth 
of the said third river, northward, to the partiti<m line of the province, 
including also all the land in New Barhadoes Neck, between Hackinsack 
and Pissiack Rivers, and thence to the partition line of the province." 
From this it would appear that Acquackanonk was included in the orig- 
inal township with that of all the territory lying between the Hacken- 
sack and Passaic Rivers to the northern boundary of the province. If 
this be true, the township then comprised all the present organizations 
of Hohokus, Washington, Franklin, Saddle River, Midland, Union, Lodi 
and the present New Barhadoes, besides Acquackanonk including the 
site of the present City of Passaic. Other proofs that Acquackanonk 
and New Barhadoes were united in one township are to be found, in a 
record of Decembers, 1683, when the "inhabitants o( Aquaninoncke," 
are authorized to join with those of "New Barhadoes Neck" in the 
"choyce of a Constable." At another date Major William Sandford of 
New Barhadoes Neck was ordered to "appoint an officer to exercise the 
inhabitants of Aquaninoncke." During the following two liundred 
years, the one ancient township was divided and subdivided until the 
present boundaries cover the small space, before noted. 

The g-overnment of a county at that time differed greatly from that 
of the present forms. Each township or plantation was then governed 
by a Board of Selectmen, exercising judicial and legislative powers of a 
restrictive kind, confined to the local affairs of their respective planta- 
tions, and limited in their jurisdictitm to "small causes." On May 1st, 
1688, a hill was drawn u]) bv the Provincial Secretary to constitute a 



94 HISTOKY OF BEKGEiST eOflNTV 



"Court of small Causes for the out plantations of Berg-en County, and 
for Aiiuackiuick and New Barhadoes in Essex County." This was sent 
to the House of Deputies by Major John Berry of the Council, was 
signed b}' the Governor, and became a law May 22d, of the same year. 
No records of these courts were kept and all we find is an occasional 
allusion to them. They granted licenses to sell liquors and keep ordin- 
aries, fixing the rates for "man and beast," in detail, and also super- 
\ise<l the roads and bridg'es. Sometimes these judges of the "Court of 
small Causes," overstepped their authority, when an appeal could be 
carried to the Governor and Council, or even to the King and Parliament 
if necessary. 

In the Provincial Council, William Sandford, John Berry, and Isaac 
Kingsland were Legislators for New Barbadoes and vicinity, — Sandford 
from 1682 to 1703; Berry from 1682 to lf)'»2, and Kingsland from 16S4 
to !(,'»(.. The following is a list of the chosen Freeholders of the town- 
sliip from 17't4 to 1899 inclusive. 

1794-95, 1802, Isaac Vanderbeck, Jr.; 1794-95, Arendt Schuyler; 
179()-99, Chris. A. Zabriskie ; 1796-97, Abraham W. DePeyster ; 1798- 
1805, lidmund Wm. Kingsland; 1800-1, Garret G. Lansing; 1802, Joost 
Bogert; 1803-6, Luke Van Zaen ; 1806-8, John I. Hopper; 1807-8, Cas- 
perus Bogert ; 1809-14, Henry I. Zabriskie ; 18(f'»-ll, Henry Van Dolsem ; 
1812, John Berry; 1813-16, Henry P. Kipp; 1815-1(., John D. Romeyn; 
1817, John A. Schuyler; 1817-18, Jacob J. C. Zabriskie; 1818, Philip 
Berry; 1819-21, John J. Hopper, Peter A. Terhune; 1822, John T. Banta; 
1822-23, 1825-27, John A. Boyd; 1823-27, Albert G. Hopper; 1824, Jacob 
J. Brinkerhoff ; 1828-33, John Zabriskie; 1828-32, Henry W. Banta; 1833, 
David I. Christie; 1834-35, Andrew Zabriskie; 1834-35, John D. Romevn; 
lS3()-+2. Albert A. Brinkerhoff; 18,>6-37, Andrew Demarest; 1837-3'*, 
Albert (i. Doremus; 1838-40, John J. \^an Saun; 1841-43, George Voor- 
his; 1843-45, Ralph Westervelt; 1844-4(,, Richard T. Cooper; 1846-48, 
1852, William Winant; 1847-49, Jacob I. Zabriskie; 1849-51, Christian 
De Baun; 18,50-52, John A. Zabriskie; 1853-54, 1856, Richard R. Hawkey; 
185.^-54, William Blair; 1856-58, Peter A. Terhune; 1857-59, Wilhelmus 
Berry; 1859-61, Abraham I. Demarest; 1860-62, Abraham A. Banta; 
18f,2-(>4, Lucas A. Voorhis; 186.>-r)4, 18f.(>, Garret G. Ackerson; 18()(>-()7, 
(;arret A. Hopper; 18!,7-f>9, William D.- Wolfe; 1868-70, Nicholas A. 
Demarest; 1870, Henry C. Harring; 1871, Garret G. Ackerson; 1872-74, 
Jacob Yercance; 1875-78, Wm. Huyler; 1879, Frederick Steinle; 1880-89, 
John O. (;rode; 1889-92, Jacob L. Van Buskirk; 1892-94, Jacob H. Fank; 
lS94-'»(.. Jacol) L. Van Buskirk; 189f)-99, W. W. Curry; 1899, Charles 
Cutikliu and Cornelius K. Eckerson. 

It is not deliniiely known at what date the first settlement was made 
in tliis townshi]). According to traiiition. Dr. Van Imburg erected the first 
dwelling house in Hackensack. This house, it is said, stood on the 
creek just back of the site of the ])resent ctmrthouse. Another of the 
very old houses is said to have stood on what was formerly known as the 
\'arick- jirojji'rty. Among the first families to settle in this locality were : 



HISTOKV OK KKK{'.i:N COI'NTV 



Albert Zabriskic, and Ivawrince in l<)ii2; I.ouric in l(iS5; llousi-man in 
Id'iS. while Kijip came a little earlier : \"an Buskirk 1<.')7; \'aii (iiosen. 
lliS'i; Disniario. 1(>'(5. 'Pne rej<>r<ls uf the t'hureh on the (Ireen. note in 
li>'i4. the reception ii'lto membership of Martin I'owelse. Jan. Christyn 
and Lena, also Maria Etsal and Rachel .lackse. In the Tollowini;- six 
years there were more than sixtv meml>ers added, showing an increase in 
the number of inhalntants. 

HACKKN.SACK. 

Hackensack, as a place of residence, is unsurjiassed bv anv other 
suburb of New York City. 

Beautifully situated on the west bank of the Hackensack Ri\er, from 
the commanding- heigfhts on its western border can l^o seen the river wind- 
ing- throug-h the valley, with the rang-e of the Palisades beyond and New 
York twelve miles in the distance. A i)o])ulation of Id, (too covers an 
area of 2,000 acres, thus affording wide streets, ainjjle grounds and 
abundance of air and sunshine to the inhabitants. 

The sandy, porous soil has a substrata of gravel and is well drained 
by the most approved system of sewerage. The outlet sewers are large 
and C(instructed of brick with pipe laterals, furnishing means for good 
drainage to buildings, as well as the soil. In all there are about 20 miles 
<if sewers, thoroughly flushed twice daih by tide water. The compara- 
tivelv few cesspoyls' are required to be laid u\> with cemeflt and made 
water tight. They are emptied by scavengers and the odorless excavat- 
ing company. :'■ 

The streets and wahks are well kept under the su])ervision of a com- 
]ietent street superintendent, (ias and electricity ' Edison's system i are 
used for street and general lighting purposes. There are about oil miles 
of llagg-ed walks .and 40 miles of macadam, which work the Improvement 
Commission is e.xtending as rapidly as the ai)])ropriations will allow. 

The water supply, furnished by the Hackensack Water Company, is 
shown by careful analyses from time to time to be of excellent quality. 
It is obtained from the Hackensack River at New Milford, far above the 
influence of tide and sewerage or other containinating matter. The reser- 
voir is at an elevation of 110 feet, with sufficient ]»ressure to bi- ut'liz mI 
bv the fire department in throwing a stream over tlu' highest I)uilding. 
It is .to be regretted that few of our wells ari' free from organic matter; 
and as this is a possible source of disease, it is de-irable that the river 
water should entirely su])plant the use of wtdls. 

The climate is mild yet variable. The snowfall is usually light - 
rarely sufficient for lengthened sleighing. The health of the town will 
compare favorably with that of any other in the State. Statistics of bs' 7 
and IS'KS, showing it to !)e lirst in ])oi'nt of health, with the county rank- 
ing second among the counties of the state. 

.Malaria prevails to some extent. Ih.iugh many of the oldest inhal)i- 
tants have never been affected l)y it. Typhoid fever and diptluria, the 
great terrors in many localities, are \'ery rare here. 



<)b 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 




\ llvW UK HACKEXSACK FKOM (JKOINDS OF C. E. ECKEKSON. 



Epidemics are not common, and as they areg-enerally of a mild type, 
are readily controlled by the vig-ilance of the local physicians and effi- 
ciency of the Health Board. Each case of contagious disease is reported 
to the B(5ard by the attending- physician as soon as he learns its charac- 
ter. It is endeavored to isolate such patients, and none of the children 
lit the famih- are allowed to attend school while any danger of contagion 
exists. A certain sum is appropriated each year for the use of the Board 
of health, which is doing a good work. A very noticeable feature is 
the general cleanliness of the town, it being absolutely without the 
usual dirty quarters. 

The dwellings are chiefly built of wood, many of them surrounded 
by large lawns pleasantly shaded. There are no crowded tenement 
houses. The markets are clean and free from any evil influence to 
Health. The public school buildings are the pride of the community. 
In their ventilating, heating and plumbing a careful regard has been 
given to sanitary laws. The other public buildings, including the Hos- 
I)ital, Court House and Jail are also in good condition. The Health 
Board is composed of intelligent, progressive men, representing several 
professions. 



98 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY , 

"The word Hackensack has been so variously spelled and defined it 
mav be an open question to-day as its orthography and signification. 
From Hackensack or Ackensack, either of which is spelled probably 
correct according to the original Indian, pronunciation, it has wandered 
through Aackingsack, Ackinghassack, Akkingsakke, Ackenkishacky, 
Ackenkeshacky, Hagensack, Haghkinsack, Hackensacky, Hackingke- 
shacky, Hackingkasacky, Hackinsack, Hackquinhacq, Hackquinhacq, 
Hacquinkacy, Hackinsagh„Haghkingsack, Hackkensak. 

SCHOOLS. 

The township of New Barbadoes is divided into four districts known 
as Nos. 10, comprising Fairmont and Cherry Hill, and a portion of 
Midland township; 31, all the township between the commission line or 
boundary -between Fairmont and the New York Susquehanna and West- 
ern Railway, and 32, all the territory of the township south of the last 
named line, to Kansas Street and the southern commission line, while 
33, contains the remaining territory in the township to Little Ferry. 
31, and 32, are largest and most deserving of notice. 

In 1825. Cornelius C. Bogert, Dr. Abraham Hopper, and Archibald 
Campbell were appointed trustees to take steps toward the establishment 
of a school in which all the branches of a classical education could be 
obtained. They first secured ground upon which to erect a building, 
and for this purpose purchased a lot fbrmerlj^ owned bv James Hill, on 
the west side of Main Street, and north of the lands of Henry Berdan. 
This was to be held in trust for the use of stockholders for the proposed 
new academy. Lafayette, having not long before passad through on his 
visit to the scenes of his earlier years when he fought side by side with 
Washington, the patriotic and grateful people named the new institu- 
tion, Lafayette Academy, in his honor. The building was erected by 
Benjamin Oldis, twentj- feet on Main Street and forty- live feet deep, 
with an upper story for lectures and religious purposes. This was sur- 
mounted by a cupola and bell from the old "Passaic Church. The first 
teacher was John Wash, Professor of Languages, from New York, fol- 
lowed by William Lynn, Michael Doyle, Simon Z«ibriskie, M. S. Wick- 
man, Jacob Vanderbilt, Hugh Norton. William C. Smith and J. G. 
Williams. 

The old academy was sold in 1853, when a new and more commodi- 
ous brick building was erected on the northwest corner of State and 
Berry Streets. J. G. Williams was the first teacher (1853), followed by 
James B. Burlew, Isaac J. Willis, Thomas H. Gimmel, B. F. Shaffer, 
A. Rider and G. T. Probst, followed by S. G. Lippincott. This house 
was forty b}' fifty feet, with an addition of twenty by forty feet, and 
with accommodations for five or six hundred scholars. The whole was 
valued at $10,000. In 1877, a new three-story building was erected on 
the same site. 

In early colonial days a law was passed rating the inhabitants for 
public instructiem in the various towns of the province. 



HISTOKY OK Br-:i\'GEN COl^NTV 99 

A mooting- was hold in Hackonsack in 17f>7 at whioh was disoussed 
the locating- of Queen's (now Rutg-or'si College, the two places be fore 
the meeting- being Hackensack and New Brunswick. After it was de- 
cided to locate at New Brunswick, the jieopleof Hackensack wore aroused 
to a greater interest in the cause of education. 

Two years later (1769) Reinen Van (iiesse, an (dd aiul extensive 
land owner, gave a site to the old Washington Academy, on the north- 
west corner of Main and Warren streets. Upon this site was erected a 
large stone building, seventy-live by thirty-live feet and two-stories 
high, with a belfry in the centre. In this belfry was hung the bell 
which became famous, .ind on which was the inscription, "Presented to 
Washington Academy by William Bayard, 1776." This institution be- 
came famous through a line of able instructors of that day, Dr. Peter 
Wilson being the first on the list. He was a distinguished Scotchman, 
who came to this country in 1763. Next came Henry Traphagen, John 
Traphagen, Bayard Bayard, Thomas Geaghan, Christian Zabriskie, 
John Hayward, Henry Blackman, William Howell, John Bogart, Henry 
Howell and John Vanderbilt. The first trustees elected (1790), were 
Solomon Frcieligh, scholar and theologian; John Van Buren, Isaac Van- 
derbeck, Jr., and the two able lawyers, Robert Campbell and Nehemiah 
Wade. The building was remodeled in 1846, and again in 1858. In 1865 
the school was made free, and in 1869, the necessary books and papers 
were supplied free of charge to all scholars. In 1873 a story was added 
to the building, but, the number of pupils increasing, it became neces- 
sary to have greater accommodations, and, in 1878, the building at the 
corner of Union and Meyers streets, was erected, and first occupied on 
December 2d of that year. Dr. Nelson Haas, j)receded by a list of emi- 
nent educators, became principal of this school in 1871, and continued 
in the work for a period of nearly a quarter of a century. In 1895, up(m 
the establishment of a separate high school, he was made its principal, 
and in 1897 was made Superintending Principal of all the schools in the 
township, and is at this time holding these two offices. 

The Hackensack Academy was erected about the year 1S()"), but was 
never a prosperous enterprise, financially. This building was located 
on State Street, near Centra! Avenue. Dr. John B. Hague was its first 
principal. He was followed by Professor Charles Hasbrouck, he in 
turn by Professor W. W. Richards, and next came Stephen Brooks, 
who was succeeded by Charles W. Boyd. About 1S82 the academy was 
closed. 

The Fairmont school house was built in 189(1, and for some time 
was utilized for both Fairmont and Cherry Hill, but this was not found 
to be satisfactory, and the Board of Education was authorized to sell 
the property and build a house for Fairmont. 

The Hudson Street school was enlarged and newly furnished in 
18')3. 

The High School, formerly conducted as a separate department in 
the Union and State Streets schools, was. from 1895 to 1896, pl;iced in 



L ofC. 



100 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

the State Street school, but later in the Union Street house, awaiting- 
the construction of the new High School building, which was opened on 
Thanksgiving Day, 1897. The High School prepares for admission to 
the Freshman class in college, or to the second year in the State Nor- 
mal School. 

The Board of Education consists of nine members, and by the school 
law enacted in 1866, all the schools of the township are placed under 
the supervision of this board. A uniform course of study has been 
adopted requiring eight years of work, beginning with the kindergarten. 
This includes a course of manual training and preparation for entrance 
to the High School. 

In addition to these, there are two private kindergarten schools in 
the village, and also one parochial school, established in 1871 by Rev. 
J. Rolands, in connection with the parish of Holy Trinity. The present 
County Superintendent of Schools, Mr. John Terhune, is doing a good 
work in the county. The city owns school property to the amount of 
nearly $10(1,000. 

HACKENSACK CHUKCHES. 

No histor}- of Bergen County would be complete without a record 
of the First Reformed Church of Hackensack. She claims to be the fruit- 
ful mother of all the English speaking Reformed Churches of the county, 
and the benevolent step-mother of all the other Protestant Evangelical 
churches. She survives to-day after the storms and vicissitudes of over 
two hundred years, one of the oldest and staunchest of the denomination 
in America. Like an old, gnarled oak she has sent her roots all through 
the religious soil of the county and nourished the ecclesiastical growth 
in all her hamlets. 

Two earliest records give the date of the organization as 1686, when 
under the ministry of Dominie Petrus Taschemaker, thirty-three persons 
united to lay the foundation of this ancient church. The original officers 
of the organization were Hendrick Jorense and Albert Stevense, elders ; 
and Hendrick Banta and Volkert Hansen, deacons. Dominie Tasche- 
maker was settled at New Amstel (now New Castle), on the Delaware 
River, serving the feeble congregation at Hackensack, with a good deal 
of sacrifice and devotion. He came four times a year to administer the 
Lord's Supper and baptize the children. Never their settled pastor, he 
did however excellent service. 

The first settled pastor was Guilliam Bertholf. a very pious man 
who acted as "voorleer," in the absence of a regular pastor. He was 
sent to Holland by the people at their expense, where he fitted himself 
for pastoral work and came back a regularl}- ordained minister. For 
nearly thirty years this first pastor labored incessantly among his own 
people, and cared for the scattered colonies of Dutch settlers in New 
Jersey and New York States, laying the foundation of the present Home 
Missionary work of the Reformed Church. In 1696, ten years after the 
organization of the church, a building was erected on the spot where the 
present venerable sanctuar}- stands. Having been altered and enlarged 



HISTOKY OK BEKC.EX COUNTY 101 

several times, it is still known to-day as "the old clnirch on the j^reen." 
After Dominie Bertholf died in 1724, there came several i)astors, all of 
them to the Dutch manor born and bred. Time forbids to enter into 
particulars, put the work of Curtenius and Goets.hius, Errickson and 
Coens abides in its influence until the present time. The congfregation 
which was scattered over a large territory erected another house of wor- 
ship at Schraalenburg-h where the pastor preached every other Sabbath 
to accommodate the worshippers in that part of the county. In common 
with all the other Dutch congregations of that time, the church passed 
through the disturbing waters of ecclesiastical strife which weakened 
and rent in twain elements that needed all adhesion possible in order to 
flourish. 

At the beginning of the Revolutinnarv War, after the death of 
Dominie Goetschius, Rev. Theodorick Romeyn t usually shortened into 
Dirck Romeyn), came as pastor, when peace and prosperity returned. 
He did not stay long however, leaving to settle in the old Dutch Church 
of Schenectady, N. Y., where he became instrumental in founding Union 
College. In 1799 the church called Rev. James V. C. Romevn as col- 
league with Rev. Dr. Solomon Froeligh. The progress of theological 
thought in New England had begun to be felt in these staid old Dutch 
Churches. The younger men felt the impulse of the new doctrines and 
antagonized the older preachers. In 182.^ this same Dr. Froeligh started 
in the old church a secession, partly from disappointed ambition and 
partly from aversion to new methods which were coming in vogue. 
Several other ministers took umbrage at the preaching of the new views, 
alleging that it was a departure from the good old ways. These seced- 
ing parties were suspended by their respective classes for insubordina- 
tion and schism. For the time being, it engendered a good deal of 
strife and bad feeling; families were divided and churches broken up. 
But being a conservative and combative secession it did not make much 
headway, and to-day it is passing into oblivion. Dominie Romeyn lab- 
ored in the church over thirty years, repairing the breaches of the seces- 
sion and strengthening the church work. He was followed by his son 
James who continued the work for the short period of three years. 
Then followed the fruitful ministry of Dominie Alexander Warner who 
labored with his flock for over twenty-eight years and was succeeded by 
Rev. Dr. Theodore B. Romeyn, a grandson of Rev. James V. C. 
Romeyn. This church has had what no other church, as far as is 
known, has ever had, viz., a succession of three generations of preachers 
of one name and family. Dr. Theodore B. Romeyn continued as pastor 
for eighteen years when he died and left as his monument, a strong 
united church. In IS-SO the present pastor. Rev. H. Vanderwart assumed 
charge. For over thirteen years he has labored to keep this venerable 
old church true to her record and she stands to-day foremost in the 
county, having a large and growing membership, a flourishing combi- 
nation of several societies, large congregations both morning and even- 



102 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

ins;-, verifying the promise of (iod that instead of the fathers shall be 
the children. 

THE SECOND KliKOKMED CHURCH 

was a swarm out of the old hive, settling in the upper part of Hacken- 
sack, on State Street. It was organized in October, 1855, and has had 
a stead_y, vigorous growth ever since. Its first pastor was Rev. James 
Demarest, Jr., who was followed by Rev. G. H. Fisher, under whose 
pastorate the church developed in every department of activity. Failing 
health compelled him to resign and liand the reins to Rev. C. B. Durand, 
who continued for twelve years, when he changed his ecclesiastical 
views and entered the Episcopal ministry. The present incumVjent is 
Rev. Arthur Johnson, who has labored with much success in this im- 
portant field, since December 12th, 1884. He was graduated from Prrnce- 
tcm College in 1872, and at Union Theological Seminary in 1875. 

A building site having been donated by Mrs. Maria Berry, the corner- 
stone of the new church-house was laid on July 30tli, 1856, by Rev. John 
Knox, D. D. The church edifice was erected in 1850, at a cost of S3000. 

THE THIRD GERMAN REFORMED CHUKCH 

\yas organized, as its name imports, by our German citizens, in Jan- 
uaf'y, 1858, in that part of Hackensack known as the Plank Road, in 
order to supply the religious needs of the increasing number of Ger- 
mans in our midst. During the forty years of its existence, owing to 
weakness, it has been served by eleven pastors. At the present time it 
is not strong, oviring to the death of many of its old supporters. Its 
present pastor. Rev. John Bombin, a scholarly man and an earnest and 
devoted worker, has under his care about eighty members. 

CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH. 

The Christian Reformed Church ( formerly known as the True Re- 
formed Dutch Church) has a history dating back to 1822,. when differ- 
ences in doctrine and practice, caused eleven (11) congregations to with- 
draw from the judicature of the Dutch Reformed Church, and organized 
as the Claseis of Hackensack of the True Reformed Dutch Church. 

Six of these congregations are entitled to recognition in the history 
of Bergen County, and are situated at Ramseys, (formerly Ramapo), 
Schraalenburg, (now Bergen Fields), English Neighborhood, (now 
Leonia), Paramus, (now Ridgewood), Englewood and Hackensack. In 
the 3-ear ,1890 after ah acquaintance of several years the two branches 
of the True Reformed Dutch Church, east and west, united, and for the 
sake of ecclesiastical, uniformity and compatibility with the Mother 
Church in the Netherlands, they assumed the name. Christian Reformed 
Church, still retaining their corporate title, observing the same form of 
church government and doctrinal standards, worshipped for a time in 
private houses, barns and halls, under the pastorate of Rev. Solomon 
Froeligh, D. D., until 1830, when Rev. C. T. Demarest served the church 
for one year, and Rev. Christian Z. Paulison was installed pastor. In 
183") Rev. C. T. Demarest was again called to Hackensack, and served 



HISTOKY OV BEKGEN COUNTY 103 



the church jdiiitly with Leonia, until 1S52, Re\-. Cornelius J. ]>lauvelt 
succeeding to the pastorate in 1SS4, remaining until his death in l.S()il. 
Rev. John Y. De Bauu was with the congregation for twentv-seven 
3-ears. The first church edifice was erected in 1S33 on Hud-jon Street, 
enlarged in 1861, and again in 18()7. In the year 1S')<) a new edifice in 
modern style, was built on State Street to rei)lace the old one. The new 
church is called the Town Clock Church. 

Rev. John C. Voorhis, who is the sixth incumbent since the secession, 
was called to this pastorate in 1887, since doing a good work, both in 
his church and in educational affairs, being a member and for several 
years President of the Board of Education. He was ordained in 1875, 
and became pastor of the church at Englewood where he remained 
twelve years, just ])rior to coming to Hackensack. 

KIKST PRESBYTHKIAN CHURCH. 

The Church known as the First Presbyterian Church was originally 
the result of a secession, owing to a dispute of Rev. C. Z. PauHson with 
the Claseis of the True Reformed Church. Thinking himself and his 
following aggrieved, they organized a church similar to the Seccder 
Church but entirely independent of it. Finally in 1S71 the Consistory 
applied to the Presbytery of Jersey City for admission to the Presby- 
terian Church which was granted. Thus this church, organized in 
1832 as an independent True Reformed Cliurch, came eventually into the 
Presbyterian fold. There has been a succession of short i)astorates 
until in 18'Jl Rev. R. Kuebler was called who continues to the present 
time. He was graduated from Union Theological Seminary in IS'd. 
The church has recently been enlarged and is in a prosperous condition. 

THK FIKST METHODIST CHUKCH. 

In 1837 an organization was effected by the Protestant Methodists, 
but disbanded after six or seven years. It was not until 184*), that the 
first class was established, and shortly afterward the First Methodist 
Episcopal Church was built on the rear of the same lot, upon which 
stands the present church and parsonage. The front was on Warren 
Street. The present church was begun in April 1874, the lecture room 
being dedicated in January 1875 and four years later the work was again 
taken up and the church completed. 

ASBUKY METHODIST KPISCOP.M. CHUKCH 

was organized in 1868, when thirty-six members were transferred from 
the First M. E. Church, and on New Year's Day 1871, they dedicated 
their new church. One month later it was burned down. It was not 
until nearly ten years had elajjsed, that the present church was built. 
They have now a membershii) of nearly 15(1, and church jjroperty worth 
probably SI 2,1)00. 

HOI.V TRINITY WOMAN CATIIOIJC CHUKCH. 

Not until 1863 did the Roman Catholics of Hackensack have a church 
of their own. Both the foreign and native born Catholic element is 
large and the congregation worships in a commodious edifice on Majile 



104 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

Avenue under the pastorate of Rev. J. J. Cunnelly. Already a new 
church has sprung out of the old one and worships in a sanctuary of its 
own on \'reeland Avenue. 

The Rev. Dr. Brann purchased the site of the present church from 
the late John C. Myers on March 31, 1867. The Rev. P. Corrig-an the 
first resident pastor preceded Dr. Braun and officiated at Hackensack and 
Fort Lee, from September, 1863, to May, 1866. 

THE FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 

was organized in 1832 by Elder Griffiths, but for various reasons the 
membership dropped off until Deacon De Woff, his wife and daughter 
alone remained. It was not until 1870 that an effort was made to again 
establish a church of this creed, and in July of that year, eleven mem- 
bers united to form the First Baptist Church. Mr. George H. Atwood 
alone secured S1500 toward a fund for the erection of a suitable house of 
worship. At the completion of the building the first pastor Rev. Zelotes 
Grenell, senior, was installed on the day of dedication December 30, 1870. 
The pastorates have in no case covered a long period but have for the 
most part been vigorous and fruitful of much good. 

CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH. 

About seventy members withdrew from the First Baptist Church, 
and organized temporarily on May 5, 1896, at the house of Mr. William 
E. Taylor. On December 3, 18'K>, the church incorporated under the 
name of the Calvary Baptist Church of Hackensack, Bergen County, 
New Jersey. 

The membership is now about eighty. The church property at 
Union Street and Central Avenue is valuable and the financial atfairs, 
generally, in a flourishing condition. The various church helps, Sunday 
School, Young Peoples' Societies, etc., are active and grt)wing. 

CHKIST CHUKCH. 

The Protestant Episcopal Church known as Christ Church, dates back 
to 1861, and has attracted a large number of people. The noble edifice on 
State Street, with its rectory, tells of the zeal and labors of the present 
pastor. Rev. Dr. William Welles Holley, who has labored with his present 
charge for more than twenty-eight years. There are now about 6U0 
members zealously working in their especial field. In its short 
life this church organization has given nearly a quarter of a million 
dollars for the spread of the gospel. 

Dr Holley is a native of Geneva. N. Y., and a graduate of Trinity 
College. He was ordained tf) the ministry in 18()5. 

THE l"XITAKIAXS 

established a church organization in February-, 1898, and incorporated 
soon after under the name of the "First Unitarian Congregational 
Church of Hackensack." They worship in Odd Fellows' Hall. This 
society has many prominent financial people of the city among its sup- 
porters, and is doing a successful work in the broad field covered by the 



IIISTOKV OF lilCKdHN corxTV 1(15 

"Love to God and Love to Man," which they recognize as practical 

relis>-ii)n. 

MorxT ()i.i\'i"r liAi'Tisr ciukch. 
The colored people are quite weak, hut succeed in keepinjr uji the 
interest of two conjj'reg'ations of the Methodist and Baptist denomina- 
tions. There are about tifty-four members in this org'anization, but 
they ha\e church property valued at S25t(U. The work of orsfanizin<> a 
cong-regation was commenced on Sundav. July 2(1, ISS'i. The Mission 
was rcorg-anized and recoofnized in 1S'>2, when the lot for the ])resent 
church building- was purchased and paid for at a cost of S2')(). 

ZIOX M. IC. CHI'KCll 

was org-anizee in l.S()5, and Mr. L. H. Sagfe douijted the lot on which 
the church stands, the building having been erected some three years 
later. 

n')';wsp.\i>]:ks. 

The first news]):iper published in Hackeiisack was the Bergen Coun- 
ty Joui-nal, with Mr. Joseph Baldwin as its edit(jr until 1S(>1' w^hen he 
enlisted in the Civil War. About this time Mr. C. C. Burr began pub- 
lishing the Bergen County Democrat and Rockland County Journal. In 
the meantime Mr. Eben Winton having boug-ht the plant of the lately 
suspended Journal, formed a partnership with Mr. Burr in piiblishing 
the Bergen County Dcmcjcrat, and at the same time discontinued the 
Rockland County edition. In less than a year, however, Mr. Burr with- 
drew, and Mr. Winton remained alone in the publication until 1S7(>. 
when he took his s<m Henry into the businos, and the firm became 
known as E. Winton & Son. One year later Mr. Henry Winton became 
sole owner. 

In politics the paper is Democratic, and is on a good financial 'oasis, 
biing i>ne of the best paying newspapers in the State. 

THK HACKKNS.VCK KEPUHI.IC.\N, 

the only permanent Republican pa])er of general circulation in Bergen 
County, was established in 1870 under the editorship of Arnold B. John- 
son, as "The New Jersey Republican." 

Mr. Johnson remained with the iiajier until 1.S74, when he was suc- 
ceeded by Hugh M. Herrick of the Paterson tiuardian. Mr. Herrick 
returned to the Guardian a year later and was succeeded on the New 
Jersey Republican Isy William H. Bleecker and Thomas II. Rhodes. 
.Mr. Rhodes, however, retired after a few months leaying Mr. Bleecker 
sole proprietor until 1S78. Thomas H. Chrystal then purchased the 
plant, and changed the name of the paper to that of The Hackensack 
Republican, at the same time enlarging the sheet and improving its 
mechanical department, while adding to its attractiveness by his hu- 
morous writings. 

In 1882 Hon. William .M. Johnson purchased the pajjcr, ])lacing 
Eugene K. Bird at the head of its editorial department. Mr.' Bird is of 
recognized al)ility and has been with this paper since 1877. 



106 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

In 1889 Mr. Herrick, former owner, again took charg-e, where he 
still continues, with Mr. Bird as local editor and business manager. 
This paper is progressive and independent, devoted to local interests as 
well as to State questions. It is on a solid business basis. 

THE EVENINC". RECORD, 

jiublished in Hackensack, is the only daily paper in Bergen County. 

In June, 1895, some young men of enterprise undertook this publi- 
cation, which they continued until January following, when "The 
Evening Record Publishing Compan}," incorporated and purchased the 
business. 

Herbert W. Collingwood, the president of the company, became 
editor-in-chief, James A. Romeyn, treasurer and manager, with James 
Smith as local editor. 

In September Mr. Collingwood retired when Mr. E. G. Runner was 
made president, and James A. Romeyn became editor, in addition to his 
offices of secretary and treasurer. 

In politics this paper is independent and aggressive, always loyal 
to local interests, while maintaining a courteous demeanor toward its 
contemporaries. The circulation is large and increasing, promising a 
bright future. 

THE HACKENSACK HOSPITAL. 

[Contribution of the Secretary of the Board.] 
In the early spring of 1888 Dr. David St. John, who had then already 
become prominent in this section and whose extended practice brought 
him into contact with many cases which could be so much more success- 
tuUy treated in a hospital, under took the organization of such an insti- 
tution in town. His efforts met with a ready response and resulted in a 
preliminary meeting which was held at the office of Hon. William M. 
Johnson on April 23rd, 1888. This meeting was attended by a goodly 
number of representative citizens and it was then decided to proceed to 
organize and a committee on permanent organization was appointed. At 
a second meeting held at the same place on May 1st, of that year, the 
committee on permanent organization reported in favor of an organiza- 
tion dual in form viz : The Hackensack Hospital Company to be managed 
by a board of eleven directors which might consist of seven gentlemen 
and four ladies, said company to acquire and hold title to the Hospital 
property. Second, The Hackensack Hospital Association to be directed 
by a board of twenty-four governors, the last named organii.ation to 
lease the property from the company at a nominal annual rental and to 
equip and manage the hospital. This report was adopted as was also 
the constitution and by-laws reported by the same committee, provision 
being made for the appointment of a ladies auxiliary board by the board 
of Governors. Permanent organization was then effected by the election 
of the following named Board of Directors for the Company: Hon. Wil- 
liam M. Johnson, Hon. William S. Banta, Edward H. Dougherty, 
Nicholas Mehrhof, Sr., John C. Van Saun, Adonijah S. Boyd, William 



insTOKY OF Hi;iu;n.\ coi"nty l(i7 



P. Ellory, Mrs. Frederick Jacnhson, Sr.. Mrs. Kli/. ibjtli F. Chrvstal. 
Mrs. Theodore B. Romeyn, and Mrs. E. M. Moses. 

For Governors of the Association : Nicholas Mehrhof. Sr., David 
Terhune, Charles H. H. Harris, Peter L. Conklin. William T. E. Wells 
Edwin Ackerman, (leorg-e W. Conklin, William V-.'illiams, Edward Poor, 
Sr., Lewis Perrot, John (). (rrode, (ieor<;-e M. Fairchild. Jr., James A. 
Romeyn, Lemuel Lozier. John (). Hilyer. Cornelius A. Herriny;, Weslev 
Stoney. Abraham (i. Munn, Jr., M.-ilthew E. Clarendon, James E. 
Church. Abrahams. Burdette, I\L D.. David St. Jidm, M. D., James 
.^L Van Valen, and Nicholas C. Demarest. The B lard of (iovcrnors 
met at once with Hon. James ]SL Van Valen jri.sidinfif and James A. 
Romeyn as Secretary. A committee on nomination of officers was a]i- 
pointed, consisting of Nicholas Mjhrhof, Sr., Dr. D. St. John, and 
William Williams. That ccmimittce reported for President, David Ter- 
hune ; Vice-Presidents, James AL Van Valen and M. E. Clarendon ; Sec- 
retary, James E. Church ; and Treasurer, Charles H. Harris, which 
report was adopted. At a subsecpient meeting of the board on Mav 7tli, 
John O. Hilyer, P. L. Conklin, and N. C. Demarest declined to serve as 
(rovernors and were rejilaced l)y Alvah Towbridt^e, and William M. 
.lohnson. Mr. Charles H. Harris als > declined the treasurership and 
James A. Romeyn was unanimously chosen in his stead. The President" 
a]ipointed a large and rejjresentative auxiliary board, the various com- 
mittees of which are to be presided over by the following: Visiting 
Committee, Mrs. William Williams, (Camden Street); Finance Comr 
mittee, Mrs. William T. Wells ; Supply C<mimittee, Mrs. William Wil- 
liams, (State Street: Nurses xVid Committee, Mrs. Dr. Hollev ; Ward- 
robe Committee, Mrs. J. S. Moses: Special Needs Ccmimittee, Miss. A. 
Barling. Want of space forbids naming the entire Auxiliary Board, but 
very largely to the ladies of that board and to Dr. St. John, David Ter- 
hune, and Cornelius A. Herring belongs the credit of the speedy and 
successful opening of this much needed institution. The first Medical 
Board were : Dr. D. St. John, President : Dr. Altram S. Burdette. 
Secretary; with Fordyce Barker, M. D., Edward C. Janeway. .M. D.. 
and Abin Jacobi, M. D., as consulting physicians. Lewis H. Sayre, ,NL 
D., consulting surgeon ; W. (rill Wylie. M. D., consulting gynecologist; 
David Webster, M. D., consulting occulist; Visiting physicians and 
surgeons, Dr. D. St. John and Dr. Abraham S. Burdette. Homeopathic 
ward, Chas. V. Adams, M. D., attending physician ; Dr. G. Howard 
McFadden, interne; and Miss Mary E. Livingston, matron. Later on 
a Nurses Training School was organized, whose graduates now minister 
to the sick and injured in many States. 

In additi(m to the names already mentioned as prominent in its orga- 
nization and early management, the name of Mrs. Theodore B. Romeyn 
should also be mentioned. 

Fnmi its incei)tion there has been most worthy, consistent an<l 
enthusiastic efforts ])ut forth by its promotors and man;igers, each sue- 



108 HISTOKY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

ceeding' annual report showing- increased facilities, a more and more sat- 
isfactory financial standing, a better corp of trained nurses, additions to 
and improvements of the hospital property and buildings and most skill- 
ful treatment on the part of its physicians and nurses until it is to-day 
recognized everywhere as a strictly first-class institution of its kind as 
shown by the fact that its last annual report shows $3826.40 received 
during the year from patients and nurses earnings, in a total receipts for 
the year of $6486.84 while the expenses were $5544.83, leaving a balance 
of $942.01. The last year (1899) the institution has been taxed to its 
utmost capacity and though 519 cases were treated during the year 
some had to be turned away for want of room, and the board of govern- 
ors are now considering plans to enlarge and otherwise increase its 
usefulness. The present board of officers are Albert V. Moore, Presi- 
dent ; M. E. Clarendon and Alvah Trowbridge, Vice Presidents ; John 
Dunlap, Treasurer ; and James E. Church, Secretary. The associates of 
-Dr. St. John on the medical board, are Doctors A. L. Van De Water, 
Frank H. White, E. K. Conrad, and G. Howard McFadden. Dr. N. A. 
Harris is attending physician to the Homeopathic ward. Dr. Elmer W. 
Scott is the present house physician and Miss Emma F. Crum, supervis- 
ing nurse. The hospital has been peculiarly fortunate in having the 
hearty assistance of many of the most prominent medical men in New 
York City, on its consulting staff. Among these are such eminent names 
as Edward G. Janeway, M. D., Abin Jacobi, M. D., consulting physicians ; 
Joseph D. Bryant, M. D., and George F. Shrady, M. D., consulting sur- 
geons, W. Gill Wylie, M. D., and Roberf H. Wylie, M. D., con- 
sulting gynecologists; David Webster, M. D., consulting opthalmic 
surgeon; J. Le(mard Corning, M. D., consulting neurologist; Rob- 
ert Newman, M. D., consultant in genito-urinary diseases; Regi- 
nald H. Sayre, M. D., consultant in diseases of spine and gen- 
eral deformities, Charles W. Allen, M. D., consulting dermatologist, 
and S. M. Payne, M. D., consultant in diseases of the eye, ear, 
nose and throat. The present Hospital Governors are Dr. D. St. 
John, M. E. Clarendon, Alvah Trowbridge, Major John Dunlap, James 
E. Church, J. O. Grode, A. G. Munn, Jr., C. E. Breckinridge, E. H. 
Dougherty, C. E. Eckerson, Chas. Henderson, Edward E. Moore, J. A. 
Romeyn, Lemuel Lozier, Hon. William M. Johnson, E. M. Barnes, Cap- 
tain i. J. Phelps, A. V. Moore, William T. Knapp, L. Perrot, E. E. 
Poor, Sr., G. L. Jaeger, Charles H. Harris and George W. Conklin. 

After due credit has been given to all others, more than to any one 
else the chief credit for organization and most successful management of 
this admiral)le and worthy institution belongs to Dr. David St. John. 

James E. Chukch. 

the hackensx\ck impkovement commission. 
This Commission was created by act of the State Legislature of 
New Jersey in 1868, supplemented in April, 1871 by a provision em- 
powering the Commission to organize a Fire Department. On June 1, 



no HISTORY OF BEKGKN COUNTY 

following, two coinparics were org-anized, Bergen Hook and Ladder 
Company, Xo. 1, and Relief Hook and Ladder Company, No. 2. Two 
trucks were purchased, but not being- of equal value, in order to make 
a satisfactory adjustment of numbers and awarding- of trucks, the.conir 
mittee agreed to give choice of trucks to one and choice of numbers to 
the other. It thus came that Bergen became No. 1, but received the 
interior apparatus. 

Their truck was first kept in a little building 'now made into a 
dwelling house) on State Street, near the Susquehanna Track. Soon 
after .this, however, thev moved into the new house on Bergen Street, 
and for more than a quarter of a century have done active service, with 
but one interruption. Their enrollment at present twenty-seven. Relief 
Hook and Ladder Company, No. 2, was organized at the old Park Hotel- 
on Passaic Street. They first kept their truck in the old D^Baun black" 
smith shop on Union Street, and afterwards used La Favorita boat house 
on Anderson's dock. In March, 189(), they took possession of their State 
Street fire house. 

The first Chief of the Fire Department, John J Ward, was from 
this company. The company was organized \yith eleven members, but 
have now twice that number. Their truck was used'twenty years with- 
out repair, except jiainting. A new truck was furnished them in 1S').S 
at a c(jst of 81,^50. 

Protection Engine Companv, No. 1, was organized in November of 
the same year, and in 1884 James Conklin, of this company, was elected 
Chief. In 1S')5 a new house was erected for them at a cost of S3500, 
and the same year the fine La France steam fire engine was furnished 
them. This company now has twentv-seven members. 

Liberty Hose Companv, No. 1, now known as Liberty Steamer 
Company, No. 1, wa? the first lios2 co:npany in the department, and was 
organized September, I'J, 1882, but did not incorporate until 1885. They 
are a prosperous company, and in ISSS pur.ihased a new hose carriage, 
of which thev are sole owners. This they turned over to the Commis- 
mission, and subsequently invested in a new steam engine, which cost 
S.^dOd. It also was accepted on April 14, ISy.l, and was the first steamer 
in town. They now l)ought one of (ileasou & Bailey's improved hose 
carts, at the same time disposing of the old carriage to the Maywood 
Fire Department. This brought about the change of name to that of 
Liberty Steamer Company, No. 1. They tuunber twenty on the roll. 
These, with the Fire Patrol, which had been organized in 187(> with ten 
members, comprised the Department. 

Tin- next company to come into existence was the Alert Hose Com- 
pany No. 2, March 22, 1883. Their place of organization was the cigar 
store of Jacob H. Fank, at 70 Main Street. Mr. Fank was made head 
of the Department in June, 1889, and in 1893 John Weickert was elected 
assistant engineer. This company now has seventeen members. Six 
years later Hudson Hose Company No. 3 was org-anized in the old Third 
District of Hackensack, (afterwards tlie I'irst i at the Franklin House 



HISTORY OK BEKGEN COVNTY 111 

on Hudson Street. Tliey have twenty-one members. Union Hose Com- 
pany No. 4, followed ill May, 1S')5, and was accepted on June 1. They 
had twelve members and still keep that nvimbiT. The duties of the Fire 
Patrol were more specilically defined by an Act of the Letfislature March 
14, 1S7'', which made the company to number twenty men. In Aug-ust, 
1887, a wagon for carr^-intr canvas covers, stretchers, ropes, lanterns, 
etc., was furnished and placed in the Innise of the Relief Engine Com- 
{lany, where it was kept until their removal to their new house <m Mer- 
cer Street. The total number of men in the Department is 1()"). 

The Exempt Firemen's Association was organized February l'>. 
1890, at the rooms of Liberty Hose Company No. 1. The aims of the 
organization are both social and beneficial. There are numy e.xenipt 
firemen who are still in active service. They nuinl)er at this time ino 
members. 

The Firemen's Insurance Association of Ilackensack. is another 
commendable institution, having in view the payment of an insurance 
fee of one dollar per member, upon the death of a fireman connected 
with the organization. The (jnly expense connected with this is that 
of stationery and printing. The only persons eligible to membership 
are local firemen. There are now 168 enrolled. 

The Firemen's Relief Association is intended to benefit members 
who are injured while on duty. The companies have equal rights by 
representatives and trustees. The Association has now about S7.(l(;(', 
invested in first class bond and mortgage security. 

THE H.\CKENS.\CK \V.\TER COMPANY. 

This is a private enterprise operated by a stock com))any incorporated 
March 12, 1869. The incorporators were Richard R. Hawkey, John H. 
Banta, Garrett, Ackerson, Jr., Eben Win ton and Samuel Sneeden. After 
ten years, the finances of the company running low, a receiver was ap- 
])ointed in the person of the Hon. Augustus A. Harden burg, of Jersey 
City. The following year, under new conditi(ms, it was reorganized 
and named "The Hackensack Water Company Reorganized." 

The source of water supjdy is the Hackensack River, from which 
the water is taken at New Mil ford, about five miles above Hackensack. 
There are probably 200 miles of force mains, with three high service 
pumps of ten, five and three million gallons daily capacity, respec- 
tively. The two reservoirs at Weehawken Heights have a capacity 
of eighteen and forty-live million galhms each, while the average 
daily consumption is about 8,000,000 gallons. This water is com- 
paratively pure, the source being Rockland Lake, which is fed from 
mountain springs. A new pumping service is soon to l)e in operation, 
with a capacity of 13,000,000 gallons daily. 

SOCIETIES, LODGES AND CI.tlBS. 

The man who does not belong to a club or a lodge, is the exception 
and not the rule. Hackensack has its share of these institutions for the 
benefit, amusement or entertainment of its many citizens who may 
choose to become members. 



112 HISTOKV OF BRKGEN COUNTY 

The oldest secret order in Hackensack, is that of Berg-en County 
L<>di;e, No. 73, I. O. O. F., which was instituted in 1845, and held its 
first meeting's in a small room over the ball-room of the "Washington 
Mansion House." This proving inadequate the lodge sought more suit- 
able rooms in which to meet until a permanent home could be secured. 
A building association was subsequentl}- formed, a site purchased, and 
Odd Fellows' Hall built. This house which they had occupied many 
years, was burned in 1897, but their present hall was in process of erec- 
tion prior to the destruction of the old one. In addition to the parent 
lodge, is Hope Encampment, No. 3.^, and Uhland Lodge, No. 177, a 
German Lodge instituted in 1874, with thirteen charter members. This 
is a prosperous organization holding its meetings in Odd Fellows' Hall, 
a line building recently finished. 

THE OKITANI KIHLD CLfB 

(if Hackensack, is the leading athletic organization of Bergen County. 

To Mr. F. A. Anthony is due the honor of suggesting the idea of 
such a club, associating afterwards with him as founders, Messrs. J. S. C. 
Wells, John R. Bogert, William P. EHery, George M. Fairchild, Jr., C. 
Julian Wood, E. E. Poor, Jr.. Asa W. Dickinson and William Welles 
Holley, Rector of Christ Church. 

Soon after the first public meeting, which was held in Library Hall, 
on the 8tli of November, 1887, the club was organized. Mr. F. A. An- 
thony was elected President, with I. B. Bogert, First Vice President; G. 
M. Fairchild, Jr., Second Vice President ; C. Julian Wood, Secretar^^ ; E. 
E. Poor, Jr., Treasurer; J. S. C. Wells, Captain. The Governors were 
Messrs W. P. EHery. R. S. Jacobson, B. J. Richardson, A. W. Dickin- 
son. A*. B. Banta, C. W. Berdan, Rev. W. W. Holley, Rev. Arthur John- 
son and A. Trowbridge. 

The club at once incorporated with an enrollment of ninety-seven 
members. Soon after this, the Anderson homestead was purchased and 
necessary alterations and improvements made. The house and toljoggan 
slide were opened to members on the 26th day of December, 1887. The 
club was a popular organii,ation from the first, and at the end of this 
year the membership numbered 234. The formal opening of the grounds 
took place on July 4th, 1888, with an appropriate programme. No 
less than 5000 people assembled to witness the game of base ball and 
tennis matches, and to hear the fine music by Drake's Military Band. 
A drill of Company C, was an interesting feature, the whole closing 
with a display of fireworks in the evening. The house and grounds 
have now become valuable property. The ball field has been enlarged, 
fine bowling alleys adjoin the club house, and some of the members 
being expert bowlers, tfiese alleys are in great deihand. A reading 
room, billiard and pool room, excellent tennis courts and a boat house, 
are all open to the members. They have also a fine hall equipped 
for entertainments and dances. Tlie family of each member is al- 
lowed all the benefits and privileges which he enjoys, except that of 



HISTOKV OV HKh'CiHN COUNTY ll.i 

voting- and liDldinsj;- office. This has been a hcnelit to the chih linan- 
cially, since the women have hehl alTairs, which have netted a neat sum 
each time. 

The present oflicers are : F. A. Anthony, President ; I. F. Hinds. 
First Vice-President; C. M. Horton. Second Vice-President; Dr. A. C". 
Hevd(m, Correspondin": Secretary; H. De Mott, Recording- Secretary; I. 
H. Labag-h, Treasurer. 

(Governors: .T. P. Chirendon, \V. J. Fisher, F. \V. Beattie, A. T. 
Holley, J. J. Phelps, (t. W. Conklin, H. (I. Terluuie, W. P. Ellerv R., 
S. Bruns. 

THK OKDEK OF AMKKICAN ,M ICCII AXICS 

wliich was founded in Phihidelphia, July Sth, l^-S, had as its chief ob- 
jects, the advocacy of free schools, and tlie non-union of church and 
state. Columbia C(amcil Ko. (.(> of this order, was organi/xnl in Hacken- 
sack September 5, 1S71 with seventeen members, but has passed out of 
existence. 

I'lOXKlCK LODCIv 

No 70 F. and A. M. was instituted April 4th, 1S()5, under dispensation, 
the first meeting- being- held in Odd Fellows Hall, Hackensack. Its 
officers were : William H. De Wolfe, W. M. ; Dr. William H. Hall, S. W. ; 
Robert W. Goslee, J. W. ; Richard A. Terhune, S. D. ( acting treasurer) ; 
Isaac E. Bigert, Sjjretary ; Thoinis Picker, J. D. ; a id David M. Hall, 
acting as Tvler. In the Fall of 18(>5 the meeting place was changed from 
Odd Fellows Hall to Anderson Hall, a room in the third story having 
been fitted up specially for the lodge. Its first regular meeting was held 
under charter or warrant, from the Grand Lodge of New Jersey, Febru- 
ary 12, 1866. After passing through some adverse experiences the lodge 
settled again in Anderson Hall where it remained until its reni<ival to 
the Bank Building. The present membership is about one hundred. 

BKKCIiX ClIAPTICK' 

No 4(1 K. A. M. was instituted in l.S').^ with eighteen members and now 
has forty-three. 

The Junior Order United American Mechanics, was organized Aug- 
ust 4, IS'H, and has an enrollment of about 2(10. Having no home of 
its own, this lodge meets at Odd Fellows" Hall every Friday night. 
The objects of the organization are such as to interest all true Ameri- 
cans. Hackensack Lodge No. 64, Ancient Order United Workmen, 
meets in Odd Fellows' Hall the first and third Thursdays of each 
month. This organization has a limit of twenty annual assessments of 
one dollar eacli, with a benefit at death of S2000, and in addition to 
this they have a sick benefit class, ])aying a weekly sick benefit of six 
dollars to its members. 

Bergen Ltxlge 14.\ Knights and Ladies of the (iolden Star, was 
organized in March, 1897. This fraternal insurance organization, as 
its name implies, admits both sexes. Any member of the family over 
twelve years of age is eligible to membershi]). 



114 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

The Hackensack Wheelmen en February 11th, 1895, organized with 
111 charter members. The}- have a home which they have occupied 
since May, 1896, having prior to that time occupied the old Bank Build- 
ing, now owned and occupied by C. A. Bogert. The enrollment is now 
250 active members, while Mr. E. C. Humphrey is the only honorary 
member. 

Besides these, the Woman's Christian Temperance Union was org- 
anized in 1883, and the Hackensack branch of the Children's Home So- 
ciety, a national organization, for the placing of homeless children, was 
organized March 23, 1895. 

There are also many societies for musical and dramatic culture. 
Among this number we lind the Gunod Society founded for the purpose 
of promoting the study of choral music and also for developing a taste 
for the music of the great masters. The Hackensack Dramatic Associa- 
tion has been fortunate in securing the services of Mr. Alfred Young, 
stage manager of the Brooklyn Amaranth. To his training, is largely 
due no doubt, the success achieved by the members. They now enjoy 
the services of Mr. George G. Ackerman of the late Schubert Club, who 
comes with a commission to form the Dramatic Association Orchestra. 
and in which he will act as musical director. 

The Deutscher Kriegerbund of Bergen County, is an association for 
the relief or assistance of regular army veterans and was organized July 
11, 1S94. 

THE t;EKM.\N SCHUTZENBUNDICS WASHINCTON RIFLES, 

State of New Jersey, organized March, ISSl, and the Bruderliebe So- 
ciety, organized in 1kS()4, are both fraternal institutions. 

THE HACKENSACK CORNET B.\ND 

is a creditable band of twenty-one instruments. 

THE KALAMAZOO BAND 

was formed in 1892, and is a social organizaticm of about eighty mem- 
bers. There are also the German Dramatic Harmonic, the Liedertafel 
German Singing Society and the Court Hackensack, No. 47, F. of A.; 
Hackingshackey Tribe, No. 189, Improved Order of Red Men; Order of 
United PMends, Royal Council, No. 1151, Royal Arcanum, National 
Union, with many others of a fraternal, beneficiary or social nature. 

BANKINC; INSTITLTTIONS. 

There have been several banking institutions in Hackensack during 
the last sixty years, but none of them are now in operation. The first 
banking institution of any importance was the Washington Banking 
Company, which came here from Hoboken, where it had been previously 
organized under a State law. It transacted business here about seventy 
years ago, but after a few years met with financial failure. John De 
Grott was President and George Y. Allaire Cashier. It was first located 
in the present southwest parlor of the Mansion House, and subsequently 
moved to its banking house, erected by the company on the north side of 
Mansion Street, near Main. 



lusTdKV OF lu'Kci-N c■()^^'|■^ 115 

The Hank ol" BerirL-n County was ostahlislu'd .lanuarv 2(1, 1S72, with 
a capital of $(>(), 000, and in January, 1S74. incroasnl to Sl(iil,oO(i, and in 
the same year a spacious and substantial liankiny house was built on 
Main Street, on the site of the old Campbell tavern, of Kevolutioiiary 
memory. 

Bergen County Savings Bank was chartered in 1S70. and commenced 
business in iS72. Its business was mainly carried on bv the officers of 
the Bank of Bergen County. 

The First National Bank of Hackensack was organized October 2:>. 
1871, and commenced business the following .lanuary, with a capital of 
3100,000. 

The Hackensack Savings Bank was incorporaU'd April 4, 1S7.^, and 
commenced business the following Mav. This bank was managed by 
the officers generally of the First National Bank. All of these f(.ur 
financial institutions continued in business till about Iwinity years ago. 

Tin-: llACKKXSACK KAXK, 

now carrying a capital of 350,000, was incorporated in ISS't, when iJavid 
A. Pell was made President; M. E. Clarendon, \'ice-Presi(lent, and H. 
D. Terhune, Cashier. These officials still continue to hold their positions. 

The directors are David A. Pell, William M. Johnson, F. A. .\n- 
thony, James \V. Gillies, Samuel Taylor, M. E. Clarendon, David St. 
John, M. D., C. J. Cadmus. John J. Phelps, Frank B. Poor, II. D. 
Terhune. 

The bank has added to its capital 350,000, a surplus of 350,000 and 
undivided profit of 325,000, and carries about half a million dollars in 
•leposits. 

In proportion to its c;ii)ital and vidume<if !)usiness it is one of the 
wealthiest banks in the State. 

Mir.ITAKV C<)MPAMi:S O).- 11 ACK I'lN'S \CK. 

The organization of the Hackensack Continental (luard, as a military 
company was effected in 1.S55. Later it formed a union with the 
Bergen C<mnty Rifles and then l)ecame known as the Bergen County 
Battalion. It was then officered as follows: Colonel A. (j. Ackerman; 
Major. David A. Barry; Adjutant, John J, Anderson: Ouartermaster, 
K. 1'. Terhune. The battalion was disbanded in 1<S(>1. 

Company (i, Sec(md Regiment X. (t. N. J., was organized by Hon. 
J. M. Van Valen, October Sth, 1.S72. Through the instrumentality of 
Mr. Van Valen, who had removed to the town, a number of persons 
had become interested in the formation of this company, which w.is 
organized as "Company C." and in which the people of the county have 
always taken a pardonable pride. The officers elected at the above date 
were Garret Ackerman, Jr., Ca])tain; James M. Van Valen, First Lieu- 
tenant; Nicholas C. Demarest, Second lyieutenant; (leorge T. Haring. 
Sergeant. To Lieutenant Van Valen is due the credit of not only organ- 
izing this company but also of perfecting a discijiline in drills, which 
made it a name, and ij-ave it ;i perinanencv in the popular o])inion of the 
peopl.. 



116 HISTOKV OF BKKGEN COUNTY 

In l.S7() chang-es were madt- in the oryfanization (if the company. 
In March of that year Captain Ackerson resii»-ue(l. and soon after. 
Lieutenant Van Valen was appointed quartermaster of the battalion. 
Lieutenant Demarest also having- resigned. 

The new officers were elected March 7, 1S7(>, and were as follows: A 
D. Campbell, formerly Uuartermaster was elected Captain; John Eng-el, 
First Lieutenant; and John E. Huyler, Second Lieutenant May .lOth, 
ls7(i. In i<S77 the company was called out in the railroad strike, and ujjon 
returning was presented a purse of three hundred and fiftv dollars. 
In January i8"h Captain A. D. Campbell retired with the brevet rank of 
Major, and John Eng-el was elected Captain. (ieorg-e E. Wells was 
promoted to fill the place of Lieutenant Freeman, ^vho had removed 
from town. Upon the retirement of Judg-e Ackerman he was appointed 
Judge Advocate, becoming in time Judge Advocate General (d' the 
State. June 15th, 18'I6, Lieutenant Van Valen resigned the office of 
Uuartermaster of tlie Second Battalicm. On February 2()th, ISS.v he 
was made Captain and inspector of rifle practice of the battalion, follow- 
ing -which, on June Sth, 1SS(), he was made Colonel and Assistant In- 
spector of rifle pratice, after which he was retired as Brevet Brigadier- 
(xeneral. On May .^Ist, 1S<S3, Company C became Company (1, in the 
Second Regiment, New Jersey National Guard, and took part with that 
regiment in its movements in the war with Spain, as will be seen else- 
where. The company left Hackensack with a full complement of officers 
and one hundred and three men, and in the regiment with them Major 
John Engle, Major Charles F. Adams, Surgeon of the reg-iment, and 
Adjutant A. T. Hollcy. Officers of the com])any were as follows: 

Captain (ieorge E. Wells; First Lieutenant, Garret H. Sturr; 
Second Lieutenant, Irving R. Pierson; First Sergeant, Walter Bur- 
roughs; Ouartermaster Sergeant, Charles H. Mabie; Sergeants, Edward 
A. Burdett, Addison B. Burroughs, James H. Russel, Edgar Vreeland; 
Corporals, Fred V. Bates, James A. Van Valen, George M. Edsall 
Ward G. Berry, Harrv Fosdick, Uncas E. Richter; Musicians, William 
Campl)elt, (barrel Robertson; Artificer, William D. Newman, Wagoner, 
I'aul T. Scoskie. 

jA-vncs li. sTpiiJiKSON POST, NO. .52, c. a. k. 
Post ,52, Department of New Jersey, (irand .\rniy of the Republic, 
was mustered in on the evening of July 13, ISSL by Mustering Officer 
Commander Rodrigo. Delegates from Post 7, 17 and .i5 were present. 
Details from the visiting comrades filled the different chairs. The fid- 
lowing veterans were mustered in as charter members: (George M. Hun- 
ter, James H. Russell, John Engel, Simeon Van Wetering, William H. 
De Wolfe, John Si>yri, John G. l->eam, William H. Harper, Albert C. 
Bogert, Conrad Hoffman, T. K. Lonergan, Frederick Zeeb, William 
Brant, Daniel W. Demarest. Frank W. Hover, Josejdi Scott, Aaron E. 
Ackerman, Lewis C. Cotte. 



HISTOKV Ol" UEKC.ICN COUNTY 117 

Cdiiimandor Sjtroiil of Post Xu. 7 of Passaii.', at the same incetin.i;' 
installed the foll()\vin<r comrades as the first officers of the post : Com- 
mander. Gec^rye M. Hunter; Senior \'ice-C-<)mman<ier, William J. Brant: 
Junior Vice-Commander, James H. Russell ; Uuartermastor, John Enu;el ; 
Surg'eon, John G. Kream ; Chaplain, William 11. Harper; Officer Day. 
Frank W. Hover; Officer (iuird. Alb?rt C. Boirert ; Adjutant, Daniel 
W. Demarest ; Serg'eant Major. Simeon \'an Weterintr ; Ouartermaster 
Sergeant, A. E. Ackerman. 

The officers of the post for IS'ts are : Comm.-inder, Janics H. Russell ; 
Senior Vice-Commander, William P. Amerman ; Junior Vice-C(mimander, 
William O. Labagh ; Adjutant, L. S. Marsh ; Ouartermaster, Aaron K. 
Ackerman; Surgeon, Evcradus Warner; Chaplain, Jasper Westervelt; 
Officer of the Day, David J. Myers; Officer of the (iuard, John Kngel : 
Sergeant Major. A. McKinney ; Ouartermaster Sergeant, Alber Cr. 
Smith. 

On the evening of July 2'), 1881, the name of James U. McPherson 
was adopted as the name of Post No. .S2, after Major General James !>. 
McPherson, who was killed July 22, 18()4, in a rebel ambuscade at Atlanta. 
Ga. We have in our possession his dressing gown and the leather case 
coutaing the field order book used by him. They were sent us by his 
mother in gratitude for having adopted the name of her son. 

This post, aided by the citizens of Hackensack. erected a tine monu- 
ment in the Hackensack Cemetery, at a cost of over one thousand dollars. 
There, too, provision is made for the interment of all Bergen County 
comrades. 

TlIK SII.K iWII.L 

owned by (iivenaud Brothers Comi)any, of West Hoboken, was erected 
in 1S7'J. They began with about (me hundred and eighty looms ;ind 
tliree hundred and fifty employees The new building wHl contain two 
hundred and thirty looms and five hundred employees. The Silk 
Weavers' Union for the mutual protecticm of its members, has for offi- 
cers : A. Bunger, President; John Grass, Secretary. 

KKONE BKOTlIIvKS 

are publishers of educational work and make a specialty of penmanshi]) 
and drawing books, in addition to a great variety of school stationery. 
Many of their publications are their own copyrights. Herman Krone. Jr.. 
eldest son of the senior member of the tirni, is in charge of the New- 
York salesrooms and offices, and H. Martini, son-in-law of the senior 
member, has the su])erintendcy of the factory. 

Hlx'lCK MA K INC, 

is another im])ortant industry. This ])lant was established about hall 
a century ago by Moses and Andrew^ Sears who were followed by Philip 
Shafer and he in turn by John Sjhnniltz and Mr. Brunsey. The same 
yard is now operated by the (Tardner firms and J. W. (iillies. 

THK H.VCKKXSACK Ml'TFAI. lUII.DINC AND I.().\N ASSDCI.XTION, 

organized in 1887, has been a great jjower in the develojiment of the 



118 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

town. Its officers consist of: William A. Linn, President; Georg-e W. 
Conklin, Vice President; Frank Pitcher, Secretary; A. S. D. Demarest, 
Treasurer and Abram DeBaun, Counsel. 

THE HACKENSACK KEALTY COMPANY, 

org-anized in 18')7 with W. A. Linn, President; W. C. Thomas, Secretary 
and Lemuel Lozier, Treasurer, is improving a section of the city, by ex- 
tending Clinton Place to the top of the hill, \vhere they have graded the 
streets and made other improvements. 

THE HACKENSACK HEICHTS ASSOCIATION 

is an incorporated company that purchased the old Red Hill. This is a 
tract of ninety acres of land, which the company so improved as to make 
of it a desirable residence section. Water, gas and electric lighting 
have all been secured, streets laid out and a railroad station house built, 
known as Prospect Avenue Staticm. So beautiful is the location, and 
so substantial the improvements that the enterprise is proving a finan- 
cial success. 

WILLIAM SICKLES BANTA. 

William Sickles Banta. is a lineal descendant of Epke Jacob Banta 
who emigrated to this country in 16S9, coming from Amsterdam in the 
ship De Trow. This emigrant was born at Harlengen West Friesland, 
Holland. Upon his arrival in America he settled at English Neighbor- 
hood, now Fairview, and in 1679 was a Judge of the Court of Oyer and 
Terminer. The Banta family remained in this part of Bergen County 
until about 1750, when Yan Banta, the great-grandfather of William S. 
removed to Pascack, Washington Township, where he died. His large 
landed estate was divided among his children. Hendrick his eldest son 
who was born May 27, 1749, succeeding his father in the old homestead. 
In l!^03 Hendfick died leaving 500 acres of land to be divided among his 
five sons, one of whom was Henry H., the father of William S. In those 
early days it was a custom, born of necessity, for young men to learn 
some useful trade. Of the five sons of Hendrick Banta, but one left 
home to engage in mercantile pursuits. Henry H., the father of Judge 
Banta, learned the trade of shoemaker, but the real business of his life 
was merchandise and farming. In 1833, he removed to Hackensack and 
formed a partnership with his brother Teunis, under the firm name of 
H. H. & T. Banta, in which he continued until his 'death in 1849. Mr. 
Banta was for some years postmaster of Hackensack, receiving his ap- 
pointment from General Francis Granger, and was a member of the 
New Jersey State Militia, with the rank of Adjutant. 

He was appointed Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, serving 
three terms, from 1829 to 1834, from 1838 to 1843, and 1843 to 1848. 
Public spirited, active and alive to the best interests of both church 
and state, he wielded an influence for good, commanding the confidence 
and respect of his fellow men. 

The maternal ancestry of Judge Banta are of good stock, his 
mother being Jane, daughter of William Sickles of Rockland County, 



IIISTOKY OI- BEHGEX COl'NTY 119 

N. Y., born January V), 17<)2, and died September 2, 1870. She was a 
descendant <if Zacharias Sickles, who was born, in Vienna, Austria, 
going- to Holland and from there to Curacoa, one of the Dutch West 
Indies, serving in the military rank of cadet. It was here he met 
(Governor Peter Stuyvesant, and came to New York with him in 1655, 
soon after becoming attached to the garrison at Fort Orange (Albany), 
returning to New York in 1(>')3. 

Judge William S. Banta was born at Pascack, December 12, 1S24, 
and was educated in the public schools, finishing his preparatory course 
for college, in the private classical school of Rev. John S. Mabon at 
Hackensack. After being graduated from Rutg-rs College in 1844, he 
began the stud}- of law in the office of Abram O. Zabriskie, of Hacken- 
sack, afterward Chancellor of the State of New Jersey. Mr. Banta 
was admitted to the Bar of New Jersey as an attorney in 1847, and as a 
counsellor in 1S51. Soon after his' admission to the Bar, Judge Banta 
was appointed Master and Examiner in Chancery, later being made 
special Master in Chancery and Supreme Court Commissioner. 

After acting as Superintendent of Schools in the Township of New 
Barbadoes (under the old law), he was appointed by the Board of Free- 
holders to act with Rev. Albert Amerman on the Board of Examiners, a 
place which he filled with efficiency for several years. In 1860 he was 
appointed Prosecutor of the Pleas for the County, and reappointed in 
1865. A Republican in politics, he held the office of Deputy Internal Col- 
lector from 1862 to 1865. The Judge was President and Treasurer of 
the Hackensack Gas Light Company for many years, and also Secretary 
and Treasurer of the Bergen County Mutual Fire Assurance Associa- 
tion, and was one of the first members of the Hackensack Improvement 
Commission. In 1872 he was appointed to fill out the unexpired term 
of Judge Ashbel Green, Presiding Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, 
and in 1873 was reappointed to the same place for five years. In 1879 
Judge Banta was appointed Associate Judge of the same court. He was 
for several years one of the managers of the Morris Plains Asylum. 

In 1850 Judge Banta was married to Sarah, daughter of John and 
Katy Ann ( Hopper ) Zabriskie, of Hohokus, who died in 185.^, leaving a 
son, who died in infancy. His second wife was Adelia, a sister of his 
first wife, who died in 1869. His present wife is Jane Anne, daughter 
of Abram H. and Maria (Anderson) Berry, a lineal descendant of John 
Herry, one of the original patentees of IJergen County. 

ABKA.M I!. liANTA 

Abram B. Banta who for forty ^-ears has been identiiied with the 
grocery trade in Hackensack, is a son of John H. Banta and grandson 
of Henry W. Banta both of whom were life long residents of Hacken- 
sack. The father established the grocery trade on Main and Bridge 
Streets in 1846, and was identified with that stand until his death thirty- 
eight years afterward. In 1830 he was married to Lydia Bartholf, who 
is still living at the age or eighty-one years. Their children were. 



120 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

Henry, Jane T., wife of Thomas H. Cumming-; Abram B., John, and 
Cornelius T. 

Mr. John H. Banta was at one time Sheriff of Berg-en County. 

Abram B. Banta was born in 1842 and when seventeen years of age 
went into the grocery business, which he has followed ever since. In 
1S82, the Banta Brothers started their branch store at Passaic Avenue 
and Main Street. In 1860, Mr. Banta was married to Miss Rebecca 
Westervelt and five chihlren have been born of this union. 

JAMKS M. VAN VALEX. 

Among- the lineal descendants of David Van Valen. who came to 
America from Holland in lr)52. followed by his father Johannes Van 
Valen five years later, is James M. Van Valen, ex-Judg-e of Berg-en 
County, whom the writer of this sketch knows from personal contact 
with the people to be regarded as one of the most useful and important 
citizens of the county. 

For a brief period of time the ancestors of this family in Bergen 
County lived in New York City, then removed to Harlem where Johan- 
nes became one of the original patentees of the Harlem Grants, and the 
last survivor of them. In course of time his descendants removed to 
Bergen County, N. J., where they became extensive land owners. Deeds 
bearing date of 1701 record the purchase of 2600 acres of land by Jo- 
hannes, Bernardus. Gideon and Rynier Van Valen, from Lancastar 
Syms, comprising all the Palisade lands from the Jay Line, extending 
from the Hudson on the east to Overpeck on the west. Bernardus Van 
Valen was the great-grandfather of James M. He was a member of the 
militia serving as militiaman, in the Revolutionary War, when he was 
taken prisoner and confined in the Old Sugar House in New York City. 
A stone house built by him is still standing near the railroad depot at 
Closter. He lived to the age of eighty years and died in 1820, leaving 
live children, James, Andrew, Cornelius, Isaac and Jane. James, the 
grandfather of James M., was for a time a farmer at Closter, but re- 
moved to Clarkstown, Rockland County, N. Y., where he died in Aug- 
ust. 1786, at the age of twenty-six years. He left three children Barney, 
Sarah, who became the wife of Henr}' Westervelt; and Cornelius. Cor- 
nelius was born at Clarkstown May 21, 1786. He married first Elizabeth 
Klackledge, and lived for s<mie years in New York City. In 1832 he 
bought a farm at Englewood, then Hackensack Township, where he 
lived seven years, when he sold that farm and purchased another at 
Tcaneck, where his wife died soon after. 

Caroline, wife of David Lamberson, and Cornelius were children of 
this marriage. His second wife was Jane, daughter of Abram Zabris- 
kie of Paramus. Of this marriage there were three children, Eliza, wife 
of Edward Barr, who died in 1867; James M. and Sarah A., wife 
of Cornelius D. Schor, of T^eimia. 

James M. Van Valen was born at Teaneck, July 21st, 1842. When 
the War of the Rebellion broke out he left school to enlist in Company 




;, z>i^/ji^frtxSSr-o. My. 



^. ^u^ . h'T^^^-^^o^ 



HisToKV oi-' iu':k(;i;n cotntv 121 

I. (if the TwL'iity-SLVond Ktoiiiuiu. Now .Krsev Volunteers, and served 
ten months in the Army ()1 the Potomae. Upon his return he ensfa-red 
in tile book trade in New York eity until 1S(„S. when he betrau teachini»- 
in Bergen county, continuing in that profession for five years. He 
taught, among other places, at I'arannis Church, New Bridge and Hack- 
ensack. Subsequently he entered the law office of Garret Ackerson, 
and, under his direction, pursued a course of study, being admitted as 
attorney in 1S75, and as a counsellor in ISTS. Immediately after his 
admission to the bar he formed a partnership with Mr. Ackerson, which 
continued for eleven years, terminating with the death of Mr. Ackerson 
in December, 1>SS(). In 1887, Governor Robert S. Green appointed Mr. 
\'an Valen Presiding Judge of the Court of Common Pleas of Bergen 
county. At the close of this term he was reappointed for a like term 
by (iovernor Werts, his term expiring in April, 1898. 

In 1872, Judge Van Valen, havingbecome interested in thi' National 
(iuard, organized Company C, Second New Jersey Regiment, and l)e- 
came first lieutenant. He was afterwards made quartermaster of the 
battalion. Soon after this he was made Inspector of Riile Practice, 
with rank of captain, and subsequently was appointed Assistant Ins])ec- 
tor General of the State of New Jersey, with the rank of colonel. At 
his own request he was retired on July 5, 1893, with rank of IJrevet 
Brigadier General, and still holds that commission. 

Judge Van Valen, always interested in educational matters, was 
chairman of the Board of Educatitm of Hackensack for a period of 
eighteen years, declining a re-election on account of pressure of business. 
He is first Vice President of the Bergen County Bar Association, and is 
\'ice President of the Holland Society of New York, of which he has 
been a member since its organization. He is also a prominent Mason, 
member of Pioneer Lodge, No. 70, and has been Master of that Order. 
Judge Van Valen has been signally successful in the various lines in 
which he has been engaged. As soldier, teacher, lawyer and judge, he 
has made an enviable reputation, and. as a jurist, his opinions have stood 
without reversal, except in two cases. Socially, Judge Van \'alen stands 
without a ])eer. 

Me was married in 1S74 U> Miss ^Vnna Augusta Smith. daui;liter of 
'riu'odore Smith. They ha\e nine children, seven boys and two girls. 

WII.I.IAM .M. IDli.NSON. 

William M. Johnson, President oi Hackensack Trust ComiJany, 
well-known lawyer and legislator, was born in 1S47. in Newton, Siisse.\ 
county, N. J., and is the son <d' Wliitlield S. Juhnscn. who served as 
Secretary of State for the State of New Jersey fri>m 18(,1 to 1S(,.S. 

Mr. Johns(m was educated at Princeton Cnllege, and subset|ucntly 
entered the office of the late Judge ScuiUKr. of Trenton, under whose 
direction he jjursued the study of law. Inin- admitted to the bar as an 
attorney in 1.S7(). After practicing lour years at Trenton, he removed to 
Hackensack. and located jjermanentlv. iiis ability as a lawyer soon 



122 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

brought to him a large and growinif clieutaiJ-e. and he became a recog;- 
nized legal light in that part of the State in the various departments 
of the profession. 

Politically Mr. Johnson is a Rejniblican. He has served on the Re- 
pul)lican State Committee, aud was a delegate in 1888 to the Nationa 
Republican Convention that nominated Harrison for the Presidency. 
He was elected Senator from Bergen count}- in 1895, and took an active 
part in legislation. In the session of 1898, and also in the session of 
1899, he was the leader of his party in the Senate. He has been con- 
spicuous for many years in all enterprises tending to a healthy and per- 
manent growth of his town. He served four years as a member of the 
Hackensack Improvement Commission, and is a member of the Board 
of Governors of the Hackensack Hospital, which institution he greatly 
aided in establishing, and continues to support. He has also been a 
member of the Hackensack Board of School Trustees ana a director of 
the Washington Institute. He is a member of the Oritani Field Club, 
the Hamilton Club of Paterson, the Princeton Club, the Lake Hopatcong 
Club and other societies. 

In 1872, Mr. Johnson married Miss White, of Trenton. Of this mar- 
riage there are two children, George W., the elder, a graduate of 
Princeton College, class of 1898, and William Kempton. Mr. Johnson 
occupies offices in the Hackensack Bank Building. 

<;hok(;k h. atwood. 

In full view of the White Hills of Mount Washington stands "Sugar 
Hill," in the town of Lisbon, N. H., where (ieorge H. Atwood was born, 
on November 9th, 1838. He was the seventh son of Moses K. Atwood, 
a wheelwright and maker of fine sleighs and carriages. The familv 
ancestors came from England at an early period, and both father and 
mother were pious and devoted Christians. 

rpon the death of his father, the mother was left with nine chil- 
dren, and shortly after this, George H., then hut eight _years of age, 
went t<i live with Joseph Clark, who owned a good-sized farm at Carroll, 
N. H. .Mr. Clark had no children, and young Atwood worked on the 
farm, and during the winter and school terms did the chores and at- 
tended the village school. He spent the evenings in reading, and fre- 
quently engaged in the village debating society. At the age of thirteen 
he jjrofessed ctmversion. and was baptized in a pond, fed by mountain 
sjjrings, at Whitetield, N. H., and united with the Baptist Church. 

In 18.=57, Mr. Atwood's real business career began when he became a 
clerk in his uncle's jewelry store, at Littleton, N. H., continuing in that 
business until he came to New York, in IHh?,, where he engaged with the 
old linen collar and cuff house of Bennett. Strickland & P^ellows, as 
entry clerk, and was rapidly advanced to bookkeeper, then to cashier, 
and, in 18f>8, to the position of manager and credit man of the New York 
house, a place he has occupied with honor to the house for the past 
thirtv-six years. During these years he has managed the credits of the 




GEOKliK H. ATWOOD 



HISTORY OF BKKdEN COUNTY 12.> 

New York house, had charg-e of the salesmen and directed the affairs of 
this extensive business throuj^h successive changes of firms, the present 
firm of FeHows & Company beinj^ really the oldest collar and cuff manu- 
facturers in the United States, havinjr been established in Troy, N. Y., 
in 1834. In all his transactions he enjoys the confidence of his emplov- 
ers in the highest degree. 

In 1SI)4 Mr. Atwood was made a Mason in Sagamore Lodge No. .^71. 
New York Citv. and became Senior Deacon, Senior Warden and Wor- 
shipful Master in rapid succession, the lodge greatlv prospering- under 
his brilliant administration. The lodge presented him with a gold 
watch and chain upon his retiring from the mastership. He was made 
a Royal Arch Mason in 1865, in Phcxniix Chapter No. 2, New York, and 
was immediately elected Principal Sojourner of the Chapter. He was 
also made a Knights Templar in Palestine Commandary No. 18, New 
York, in 1865, under a dispensation of the Grand Commander, being 
given all the degrees at one conclave, and was at the next conclave 
elected Prelate of the Commandary, tilling the office with marked ability 
for years. During 1865-6-7, while visiting Hackensack and when Pion- 
eer Lodge was young, he attended the lodge meeting, conferred de- 
grees, installed officers and gave valuable counsel. His membership is 
now with Pioneer Lodge No. 7(). F. & A. M. of Hackensack as a Past 
Master. 

In 18()5 he became a l)oarder at the Hackensack House, kept by A. 
Van Saun, and on December 22nd, 1866, was married to Miss Lucy Shel- 
drake, eldest daughter of the late (ieorge H. Burt of Hackensack, where 
he has since resided. Six children have been born of this marriage, 
three boys and three girls, all living. 

Early identifying himself with the interests of the town, he became 
one of the founders of the Public rvil>rary and Reading Room and one 
of its first trustees. Taking the lead he arranged for a course of po])ular 
lectures for its benefit, which netlerl them S.^SO. So anxious was Mr. 
Atwood for the financial success i>f this cause that he personally sold 
lecture tickets on the trains. 

He 18i)'» he was a nu'inlier ni the choir in the Second Reformed 
Church. Dr. George H. Fisher. ])asti>r. Being a Baptist, in May, 187(t, 
he started a subscription to build a Baptist Church, and personally 
secured S15(t(l before any one else had raised a dollar, and on the third 
of July a church was organized with eleven members who received the 
right hand of fellowshij) by Deacon DeWolfc and his wife, the only 
surviving members of a church that existed in Hackensack about thirty- 
five years prior to that time, Mr. Atwood being one of the eleven 
organiy.ers. Ground was broken on September '»th of that year and on 
December ."^Oth following the present church edifice was dedicated. He 
has labored zealously in both church and Sunday school ever since, 
holding the various offices of trustees, clerk and deacon in the church 
while he has been a teacher in the Sundav school for twenty-nine years, 



124 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

and three times elected superintendent, which position he now holds. 
In 1873 he was President of the New Jersey Sunday School Convention, 
comprising- thirty-live schools. 

Mr. Atwood has been a liberal and cheerful giver to Home and 
Foreign Missions, and to every good and benevolent work. 

DK. DAVID ST. JOHN. 

Dr. David St. John is descended from Matthias St. John (Sention) 
who came from England in 1(>35, settling in New England. His grand- 
father, Noah St. John, removed to New York State upon his marriage 
with Elizabeth Waterbury, of Waterbury, Conn. Dr. St. John was born 
in Berne, Albany County, New York, in 1850, his father being David 
St. John and his mother, Mary Johnson of Scotch ancestry. 

After pursuing a preparatory course in the Albany Schools, he com- 
menced the study of medicine with Dr. H. W. Bell of Berne, N. Y., 
afterward entering the office of Professor James H. Armsby, of Albany, 
N. Y., then the leading surgeon in that part of the state. He took 
courses of lectures at the Albany Medical College, Buffalo Medical Col- 
lege, and Bellevue Hospital Medical College, graduating from the latter 
institution in 1875. He located in Hackensack where he has become 
prominent in his profession; and has been closely and prominently iden- 
tilie<l with all matters of town interest. 

In 1888, realizing the great advantages that a hospital would offer 
tor the better treatment of a class of medical and surgical cases. Dr. St. 
John conceived the idea of organizing the Hackensack Hospital, and 
while his energetic and untiring efforts in its behalf have been ably 
seconded by all classes of citizens, his indefatigable labors have been 
the primary cause of its great success. He is President of the Medical 
Board, and visiting physician and surgeon to this institution, ex-Presi- 
dent and member of the Bergen County Medical Society; a member of 
the New Jersey State Medical Society; New York State Medical Associ- 
ation and the American Medical Association. He was appointed by 
Governor Griggs one of the managers of the State Hospital for the In- 
sane, Morris Plains, and is surgeon for the Erie Railroad. He also per- 
forms a good share of the surgical work in the western portion of the 
county outside of his hospital practice. Associated with him as assist- 
ant is Dr. A. A. Swayze, graduate of the College of Physicians and 
Surgeons, Baltimore, Md. 

The doctor is First Vice President of the Hackensack Trust Com- 
pany, a director of the Hackensack Bank and of the Gas and Electric 
Company of Bergen County, and President of the Hackensack Heights 
Association, owners of a large track of valuable real estate on Hacken- 
sack Heights. 

Dr. St. John is a courteous and dignified gentleman. Sympathetic 
and thoughtful, he gains the confidence of his patients as he does of 
others with whom he comes in contact. 



^^ss^. 





'/■ 



HISTORY OF BKKGEN COVNTY 125 

He was married in 1879 to Miss Jennie Angle, of Hope, New Jersey. 
They have three chilnren — Olive Graham, Fordj'ce Barker and Florence 

An<rk> . THE ROMEYN KAMII.V. 

Prior to the middle of the thirteenth century, Giacomode Ferentino, 
an Italian gentleman, settled at Rongham Manor, Norfolk, England, 
married Isabella de Rucham, a lady of that place, by whom there were 
two sons. Peter and Richard (or Thomas). Thev were sent to Rome to 
be educated. After their return, Peter, at least, took surname of Rom- 
aeyn (Peter the Roman). Although educated for the priesthood, he 
married the daughter of Thomas de Leicester. Her mother's name was 
Agatha de Cringleford, of Norfolk. Peter Romaeyn devised property, 
made out leases, granted "charters," many of which still exist over the 
name assumed by him. His widow sold the property at Rongham in 
that name. In the third year of Edward II, A. D., 1387, Thomas 
Romayn was Lord Mayor of London. His arms (foreign) not granted 
in England. Described in the register '* Argent" (white) on a fesse 
gules (red) three crosses pater, or- crest, a deer's head Erased. Soon 
after the above date, troubles broke out between the king and the house 
of Leicester (see History of England ) and many of the Leicester family 
and adherents were forced to flee the kingdom, and it is probable, though 
not a part of family history, that some of the Romayns went to the 
•■ low countries" at that time. There is a claim made that the name in 
France is spelled Romaine, in England, Romain, and in Holland, Romeyn 
— the latter we know to be a fact. Jan Romeyn, of Amsterdam, Holland, 
was a descendant of the Romeyns who went from England to the low 
countries, he had three sons, Simon Janse, Christoffel and Claasor Klass. 
(Note — In Valentine's Manual, 1803, is the facsimile signature of Simon 
Jansen Romeyn, 1661, in the Dutch Church records of New York is the 
marriage, 1()68, of "Simon Jansen Romeyn, young man from Amster- 
dam and Sophie Jans, maiden from the Hague."; Christoffel and Claus 
sailed from Rotterdam for Brazil with the expedition of Prince Maurice. 
When Brazil was ceded to Portugal, they sailed for New Netherlands, 
and settled (m Long Island (there is a dispute as to the date, some claim- 
ing 1654, others 1661), then removed to Hackensack, N. J., remaining 
about ten years, and later to Greenwich, on the island of New York. Claus 
married Christianje or Styntie Albertse T<;rhune, May 2, UtHO, of Ams- 
fort now (Gravesend, N. Y. ), and died at (Ireeuwich, N. Y. His children 
were Garrebregt, (a) John, Elizabeth, Lydia, Albert, Cora and Daniel. 
Daniel married in Hackensack, May 17, 1716, Martie (Mary) Westervelt. 

JOHN KOMEYN, 

(a) John Romeyn (of Holland) married Lammatje Bougeart at 
Hackensack, in 1699. Of this union there were also seven children, (b) 
Nicholas, Roelif, Isaac, Aquietjin (David), Rachael (Berdan), Asseltjin 
( Van Voorheest). At this point it may be opportune to produce the names 
that belong under this head, as they are found in the records of the Dutch 
Church at Hackensack. Garrebreght Klas Romeyn, Elizabeth Romeyn, 



126 HISTOKY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

Lydia Romeyn, Jans Clasen Romeyn, Clara Romeyn, Daniel Romeyn, 
Rachael Janse Romeyn, Klaes Romeyn, Jan Romeyn, Geisjan Romein, 
Annastjen Romeyn, David Romayn, Isack Romeyn, Ang^uietjin Romeyn, 
Leude Romein, Cristyntjen Romein, Claes Romeyn, Roelif Romeyn, 
Nicholas Romein, Antje Romein, Guetje Romeyn, Eyntje Romeyn, Jan 
Romeyn, John Romeyn, Nikase Romeyn, Eliza Romeyn, Sarah Romeyn. 

NICHOLAS ROMEYN. 

( b) Nicholas Romeyn was born in 1700, died in 1763, married Eliza- 
beth Outwater 1726, who died 1732. His second wife ( 1733) was Rachel 
Vreelandt, who died in 1761. The issue by his first wife was (c) Rev. 
Thomas Romeyn. By his second wife, John, born 1734. The latter first 
married Julia and second Lady Mary Watts. Issue Eliza (Simmons), 
John and the Rev. Theodoric (Dirk) Romeyn, D. D., born 1744, died 
1804, who married Elizabeth Broadhead. The latter was pastor of the 
Dutch Churches of Hackensack and Schraalenburgh about ten years. 
The pastorate beginning- May, 1776. He is largely quoted, and in the 
list of names of distinguished personages, he is considered one of 
the prominent American theologians. 

REV. THOMAS ROMEYN. 

(e ) Rev. Thomas Romeyn ( see Corwin's Manual ) was born at Pomp- 
ton, March 20th, 1729, and died October 22d, 1794. He graduated from the 
College of New Jersey, 1750. Studied theology. After preaching a few 
times on Long Island, he went to Holland in 1752 for ordination, and was 
settled at Jamaica, Long Island, until 1760. It is said that the spelling of 
the name Romeyn was adopted in this form from his researches in Hol- 
land. Prior to that the name was spelled in several ways; but his informa- 
tion obtained in Holland led him to a certaint}' that "Romeyn" was the 
proper spelling, and it is in that form to-day in Holland. He married twice, 
first a Margarita Freelinghuysen, June 29th, 1756, who died at Jamaica, 
December 13th, 1757, leaving a son, Rev. Theodore F., who died at Somer- 
ville, N. J., in 1785. Secondly, Susanna Van Campen, whose ashes rest 
in the graveyard of the old Church on the Green, in Hackensack. He 
died at Fonda, N. Y., October 22d, 1794, and was buried under the pulpit 
of his church. The issue was (Rev.) Thomas, Nicholas, Abraham, Eesf. 
John Broad-bead, at one time pastor of the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian 
Church in New York (Dr. Hall's), Benjamin and Rev. James Van Campen. 

REV. JAMES VAN CAMPEN ROMEYN. 

Rev. James Van Campen Romeyn was born at Minsink, Sussex 
County, N. J., November 15th, 1765, died at Hackensack, June 27th, 
1840, and was buried in the old churchyard on the Green, by the side of 
his first wife. He attended the Schenectady Academy, 1784. Studied 
theology under Rev. Theodoric (Dirk) Romeyn, his uncle. He was a 
trustee of Rutgers College. He had several charges, the last of which 
was the Reformed Churches of Schraalenburg and Hackensack from 1799 




KKV. JAiMKS VAN CAiMPKN K'OMKVN 
Dcceasi-d. 



128 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

to 1833. " Without ever having seen or heard him, he was called to the 
distracted churches of Berg-en County, N. J., on the ground of his repu- 
tation as a man of forbearance, discretion and piety." (Taylor's An- 
nals, Sprague's Annals). He married twice, Susanna, a daughter of 
Maus Van Vranken, of Schenectady, and Mrs. Elizabeth Pell, who sur- 
vived him. There was a family of two sons and seven daughters, Susan 
(Zabriskie) born 1790, died 1868; Harriet (Stafford) born 1792, died 1849, 
Anna Maria (Varick) born 1794, died 1855; Rev. James Romeyn, D. D. 
born 1797, died 1859; Anna (Taylor) born 1801), died 1868; Eliza ( Berry ) 
born 1803, died 1849; Caroline (Danforth) born 1807, died 1845; Theodore, 
born 1810, died 1885 (Lawyer, Detroit, Mich.; Sarah (Hornblower) born 
1814, died 1874. They resided on the property now owned by the Oritani 
Field Club, in Hackensack-. About 1827 he lived in the homestead now 
occupied by Hon. William S. Banta, Main Street, where most of his daugh- 
ters were married. In 1833 he erected the house just north of the latter, 
on Main steet, now the property of Mr. O. O. Shackleton, where he died. 

REV. JAMES KOMEYN. 

Rev. James Romeyn was born at Blooming Grove, N. Y., Septem- 
ber 30, 1797. He graduated from Columbia College in ISlb, and from 
the Theological Seminary at New Brunswick, N. J., in 1819. He de- 
clined the title of Doctor of Divinity bestowed on him by Columbia Col- 
lege. He was settled at several places — was pastor of the First Re- 
formed Church of Hackensack from 1833 to 1836 ; was elected a trustee 
of Rutgers College in 1842. He married Joanna Bayard Rodgers, daugh- 
ter of John Richardson Bayard Rodgers, M. D., a leading physician and 
professor in Columbia College, New York. There were two sons, James 
Rodgers and Theodore Bayard Romeyn. Mr. Romeyn was a man who 
threw his whole energy into his labor. He was a student and very pre- 
cise in his work ; an exceedingly rapid speaker and there are those who 
remember him to-day who rapturcmsly speak of him as a wonderfully 
powerful preacher. His nature was exceedingly sensitive ; but his phy- 
sical strength was not equal to the mental strain, always at a high ten- 
sion. His manner of writing his sermons was most. remarkable — a few 
are in existence — the manuscripts are written so fine and condensed that 
they cannot be read without the aid of a strong magnifying glass. 
While in Hackensack he resided part of the time in the parsonage of the 
First Church, on Essex Street, and part of the time on the southeast 
corner of Main and Ward Streets. He died at New Brunswick, N. J., in 
1862, and his ashes mingle with his kindred dust. 

REV. THEODOKP: B.\YAKD ROMEYN. D. D. 

Rev. Theodore Bayard Romeyn, D. D., was the second son of Rev. 
James Romeyn. He was born at Nassau, N. Y., October 22, 1827. He 
attended school at Hackensack and other places. He graduated from 
Rutgers College with the distinction of the Honorary Oration in 1846, 
and from the Theological Seminary at New Brunswick. N. J., three 
years later. The degree of Doctor of Divinity was conferred upon him 




KKV. JAMIiS KOMKYN 

Deceased. 



130 HISTOKY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

by Rutgers College. He was called to preach Christ at Blawenburgh, 
N. J., near Princeton, immediately after his graduation, where he lab- 
ored with a united people who reverence his memor}- and treasure his 
ministrations among them. He responded to a call from the church of 
Fathers — the First Reformed at Hackensack — in 1865, where for twent}' 
years he labored "faithful unto death." He was a man whose retiring 
tendencies were predominant. He despised shams, and when once his 
mind was made up there was no compromise. He inherited a keen sen- 
sitiveness from his father. He carried the joys and the sorrows of his 
congregation, sharing with each member, especially in their sorrows. 
He was exceedinglj- sympathetic and his charity was a marked feature 
of his life, though the left hand knew not the gifts of the right. He 
was the embodiment of faithfulness, never shirking duty, but many 
were the occasions when, phj-sically incapacitated, he responded to the 
calls of his parishioners, and was present at the post of duty, in the 
vineyard of his Master, which was always his pleasure. He was a close 
and persistent student, a deep thinker, eloquent in his discourses, fer- 
vent in his labors and ardent in effort to lead the erring into the paths 
of rectitude and to the Throne of Grace. Dr. Romeyn had been on a 
longer vacation than he usually indulged in and among the scenes of his 
boyhood, near Catskill, N. Y. He came home upon a Friday evening, 
the following morning the Master called — he was stricken with paraly- 
sis. His illness was of but brief duration, in a few hours he had passed 
into the holy atmosphere of the Delectable Mountains, August 18, 1885. 
His body was laid in God's acre, hard by "the old Church on the Green," 
from which pulpit with an unfaltering zeal he had proclaimed the un- 
speakable truths of his Redeemer. The following is quoted from a bio- 
graphical sketch in the memorial volume published by the consistory. 
"It is also worth a passing notice to observe the large ministerial circle 
of which he was a member by family ties. His maternal great-grand- 
father was Rev. John Rodgers, forty-four years pastor of the Wall 
Street Presbyterian Church, New York City. * * * His paternal 
grandmother was a sister of Rev. Nicholas Van Vranken. In these 
several branches of relationship there are found nearly or quite forty 
names of those who have devoted themselves to the ministry of the 
Gospel, and of this number, three-quarters belong to the Romeyn fam- 
ily. Dr. Romeyn married Amelia A. Letson, daughter of Johnson Let- 
son, Esq., of New Brunswick, N. J. Mrs. Romeyn survived her husband 
a few years and was called home October 22, 1897. The issue was Mary 
Letson Romeyn, who died in infancy, and James A. Romeyn, surviving. 

JAMES A. ROMEY'N. 

The subject of this sketch was born at Blawenburgh, Somerset 
County, New Jersey, 1853. He is the only son of Rev. Theodore Bayard 
Romeyn, D. D. and Amelia (Letson) Romeyn. His mother was the 
daughter of Johnson Letson and Eliza Shaddle, of New Brunswick, N. 
J. Mr. Letson was a trustee oi Rutgers College and a liberal contributor 




KKW TIllCODOKE HAVAKl) KOMEYN 



132 HISTOKY OF BEKCEN COUNTY 

to its support and endowment. He was President of the Norfolk and 
New Brunswick Hosiery Company and the New Brunswick Rubber 
Company. Br. and Mrs. Ronieyn settled at Blawenburg-h in 1850, where 
James A. attended the public school, until IbdS, when his father was 
settled as Pastor of the First Reformed Church at Hackensack, N. J., 
the "Old Church on the Green." He was prepared for college at the 
academy at Lawrenceville, N. J., and at the Rutgers Grammar School 
at New Brunswick. In 1872 he entered Rutgers College and was 
graduated in 1876. He entered the law office of Bedle, Muirheid & 
McGee in Jersey City, in 187(), took a course of study of Columbia Law 
School and was admitted to practice law at the New Jersey State Bar in 
1879. He practiced law in Jersey City until 18M0. part of which time 
was a partner in the firm of Romeyn & Griffin. The practice of law 
becoming distasteful to him, he abandoned it ISVO. 

In 1894 he became editor of The Evening Record, an independent 
dail\- newspaper, published in Hackensack, the only daily in Bergen 
County. He entered upon the work of journalism, as he would upon the 
high professions with a firm conviction that it was equal, if not of more 
importance than the profession of theology, law or medicine. He has 
continued this work with great energy and success until his paper 
has become an important vehicle of news and thought, and a necessary 
institution of the city. 

His whole thought and discussions have been on the side of good 
morals and the public welfare. No questionable paragraphs have ever 
found place in the columns of his paper. His, has been a successful 
effort to make the Evening Record one of the most influential papers in 
this locality, an with a very flattering circulation, he has made an envi- 
able reputation throughout the whole State. 

Mr. Romeyn has never taken any active part in politics, though his 
political principles are p.QSitive and fixed. He has been called to fill 
places in local boards and was treasurer of the Hackensack Hospital for 
seven years. 

He married Miss Flora M. Cochran of Lancaster, Pa., in 1884, who 
died in 1891. From this marriage he has two children, Theodore Bay- 
ard and Katharine Cochran. He again married, Miss Susie B. Conover 
of Newark, N. J., in 1894. 

MK. JACOB H. FANK. 

Mr. Jacob H. Fank, the present postmaster of Hackensack, was 
Ixirn in that city August I7th, 1855, and was educated in the public 
schools of his native place. When but fifteen years of age he became 
telegraph operator for the New York and New Jersey Railroad Com- 
pany. Afterward he filled similar positions with the New York, On- 
tario and Western, and the New York, Susquehanna and Western Rail- 
road, returning in 1875, to Hackensack. 

In 1879 Mr. Fank began the manufacture of cigars at 71 Main 
Street, but in 188.> disposed of this business and resumed that of tele- 




J. \ Mies A. KOMl'.VN 



134 HISTOKV OF BKKC.EN COUNTY 

graphy, accepting a position with the West Shore Railroad Company, 
subsequently becoming- operator for the Long Island Railroad at Brook- 
lyn, N. Y. In 1885, upon his return to Hackensack, he opened a gro- 
cery store, in which he did a good business until 1896, when he was 
appointed postmaster by President Cleveland, a position which he con- 
tinues to hold. 

In 1887 Mr. Fank was elected chief engineer of the Hackensack 
Fire Department, and re-elected to the same office in 1888. He served 
four years as tax collector for New Barbadoes township. 

Mr. Fank is a member of many lodges: Pioneer Lodge, No. 70, F., 
& A. M.; Uhland Lodge, No. 177. I. O. O. F.; and Hope Encampment; 
Hackingeshacky Tribe, No. 189, I. O. R. M.; Court Hackensack F. of 
A.; the A. O. U. W. and Exempt Firemen Association. He is also 
secretary of the Hackensack Firemen Insurance Association; vice pres- 
ident of the State Exempt Firemen Association of New Jersey; Master 
Workmen of Hackensack Lodge, No. 64, A. O. U. W. He is a member 
of the Kalamazoo Band; Alert Hose Association, and is L. A. W. Local 
Consul. 

Mr. Fank was married December 7, 1879, to Miss Thresa Mattjets- 
check. They have two children living, a son and a daughter. In 
politics Mr. Fank is a Democrat. 

PETKK \\. STAGG. 

Peter W. Stagg, a prominent lawyer of Hackensack, was born in 
New York city October 24th, 185(1. His childhood and early life, how- 
ever, were spent in Cresskill, N. J., where he attended the public school. 
In 1875 Mr. Stagg went to Jersey City where he became a student of 
law in the office of the late Charles Scholfield, and where he remained 
two years, after which he came to Hackensack, and entered the office of 
Ackerson & Van Valea, continuing with them until 1879, when he was 
admitted to the bar, at the June term. Immediately after being admit- 
ted, he opened an office for the practice of his profession in which he 
rapidly built up a good business. 

At the June term of 1883 he was made a counsellor-at-law. He 
served as assistant clerk to the House of the State Assembly at the 
sessions of 1891-2, and in 1895 was appointed by Governor Werts, as 
Prosecutor of Bergen county, for a term of five years. 

Prior to the time at which Mr. Stagg became prosecutor, this coun- 
ty had been infested with pool room and green-goods gangs. These 
the new prosecutor drove out, in addition to conducting the ordinary 
criminal business 

Mr. Stagg is a member of the I. O. O. F., Bergen County Lodge, 
and has been Grand Master of the State of New Jersey, having in 18'»7 
the care and jurisdiction of 249 lodges in different parts of the state, 
comprising a membership of 25,000 Odd Fellows. He is also a member 
of the Fire Patrol. He was a member of the Second Regiment New 
Jersey Volunteers in the late Spanish War. 




PE'IKK W. .STACKJ 



1,^() HISTOKV OK BEKGEN COUNTY 

Mr. Stagg was married on January 14, 1875, to Miss Jennie E. 
Westervelt, of Bergenfields. The oldest of their five children, Arthur 
A., is in his father's office. 

HON. WILLIAM I). SNOW. 

H(in. William D. Snow, son of Josiah Snow, founder of the Detroit 
Tribune, was born in Massachusetts February 2d, 1832. He was educated 
at Romeo, Michigan, afterwards studying law at Dixon, Illinois, under 
the late Attorney General Edson, of that state. For several years he 
was associate editor of the Tribune. He was a strong advocate 
of anti-slavery doctrine, and was a frequent contributor to the 
magazines and journals of that day, and also a hymn writer of some 
note. 

Mr. Snow settled at Pine Bluff, Arkansas, in 1860, and aferwards 
represented Jefferson county in the Constitutional Convention of Arkan- 
sas. The convention resulted in the establishment of a Free State 
Constitution, the first in any seceding state. 

Mr. Snow was elected in 1865 for the long term to the United States 
Senate from Arkansas. At the close of his term he declined a re-elec- 
tion, coming to New York city for the purpose of studying law. In 
1871, however, Mr. Snow went to Paris, where he spent two years in 
the study of civil law. In 1875 he was admitted to the New York Bar, 
receiving, the same year, the degree of L.L. B. from Columbia College. 
In 1882 he became secretary and counsel to one of the New York Trust 
companies, but resigned in 1888 to take up general practice. He acted 
as volunteer Aide to General Powell Clayton and Major General Steele 
during the Civil War, and was instrumental in the enlistment and organ- 
ization of three regiments in the state of Arkansas. Governor Murphy 
afterward tendered him an appointment as Brigadier General of Volun- 
teers. This he declined. 

Mr. Snow is of retiring and studious habits, and in religion a Uni- 
tarian, president of the Unitarian Congregational Society of Hacken- 
sack. He belongs to the Lawyers' Club, the Bullion Club of New York 
and the Oritani of Hackensack. 

Several of his iuventines have proved successful, his Thermostat 
being regarded as the most reliable and sensitive of its class. 

Mr. Snow is now a member of the bar in three states, having been 
admitted to the New Jersey Bar in 1894. After residing in the northern 
part of Bergen county for more than twenty years, while practicing in 
New York city, he gave up his city practice in 1896 and removed to 
Hackensack, where he hopes to spend the remainder of his life among 
his New Jersey friends. 

EKNEST HENKY KOESTEK. 

Ernest Henry Koester, one of the leading lawyers of Bergen county, 
is a native of Norristown, Pennsylvania, and was born April 28th, 1855. 
After receiving a preparatory education in the High School of Philadel- 
phia, he went to Heidelberg, Germany, remaining in that insitution 



HISTORY OK BKKGEN COUNTY l.i7 

tlircc years, and subsequently took a three years' ciiurse of itistruelioii 
ill AUeg'heny College, at Meadville, I'ennsylvania, taking his degree ol 
A. B. in 187'). He now began the study of law in the office of M. L. 
Richmond & Son, of Meadville, and was admitted to the bar in iS,S2. 
He immediately began the practice of his profession in McKean county. 
Pennsylvania, and was admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of his 
state in ISSd, in the meantime tilling the office of District Attorney of 
his county for three years. In i.S')4 he located in HackensAck. and in 
June of the same year was admitted to practice in all the courts of New 
.1 erse y . 

Mr. Koester has a large clientage in Bergen county, and is known 
in the state as an able criminal lawyer. He defended Ryan in the 
famous green-goods affair of New York, winning the case after it had 
been carried against him in both the ujjper and lower courts. 

Mr. Koester is a member of the Masonic Fraternity, having taken 
the thirty-second degree. He is also a member of the Hackensack 
Lodge of Odd Fellows, and of other societies. 

JOHN J. .VNDICKSON. 

Jolin J. Anderson, a representative of one of the old families of 
Hackensack, resides at tlie Anderson homestead, corner of Passaic 
Avenue and Main Street, where his grandfather, John Anderson, 
located about the year r8(W. The grandfather was of Scotch-Irish de- 
scent. He came tirst to New Bridge, Bergen county, and after his 
marriage to Catharine Zabriskie, located in Hackensack. where he pur- 
chased the propertvTiow owned by the Oritani Field Club. He was ex- 
tensively engaged in mercantile pursuits, and operated a store at the 
oirner of Passaic and Main Streets for many years, but the business was 
latterly put into the hands of his sons John C, and David. John died 
in IS.^f) at thirty-four years of age, and John, his father, died in 1S4(), 
eightv-two years of age. In 18().S Mr. Jolin J. .-\nderson tore down the 
old building and erected Anderson Hall, placing in the wall a corner- 
stone of the (dd house, on which was subscribed: "W. C. W., 1711." 
Fron; this it is sui)pose(l the building was erected by W. C. Waldron in 
1711. The store on the other corner of the street, now owned by the 
heirs of John II. T. Banla, was then operated by H^U. T. I!anta, and 
lafore him bv Mr. Doremus, subsequently Judge Doremus. There were 
a few other lumses at intervals along the road, now Main Street, then 
fenced in with rails. 

.\l)out the vear IS.SS the .Morton (louse was built by Mrs. Abram 
I'.errv. the daughter of John Andi-rsou. Judge Banta married a 
daughter of Mrs. Berry. John C. Z. Anderson married Harriet Meyers, 
of Knglish Neighborhood, and had live children, (iarret Meyers, who 
married Leah I^ouis Sl<)pe in 1S4'», and then Mary (lalloway in I.S54; 
Catherine C. who married Lucas J. Van Bnskirk in i,S48;Jane, who 
married \V. C. Smith in 18.s2; .Maria, who married Leveret H. Sage in 
18.=^4, and J<din J., who was born in iSM), and married Jane Ann Deni- 



138 HISTOKV OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

arest in i853. The wife of John J. died in i883. Their children were 
Martha, Catharine Z., Pauline and Cornelius H. 

Mr. John J. Anderson was one of the prominent merchants of Hack- 
ensack until his retirement in i878. He was Collector, and held other 
offices in the town of New Barbadoes, and was the first Republican 
elected to the State Legislature for tifty-four years. 

iMATTHEW E. CLAKENDON. 

Matthew E. Clarendon, a leading leather merchant of New York 
city, was born in i835, and formerly lived in Brooklyn, N. Y. 

Upon bis removal to Hackensack, in i87(), he immediately began to 
devise means of improving the roads. Hackensack had been slow to see 
its own needs in this regard, or the advantages to arise from a better 
C(mdition of things. In i890 he was elected a member of the Hacken- 
sack Improvement Commission. He soon found those who were willing 
to aid in the matter of macadamizing the streets, and during the seven 
years he has served on this board, much has been done in the way of 
advancement. 

Mr. Clarendon has been governor and also vice president of the 
Oritani Field Club, and has also been vice president of both the Hack- 
ensack Bank and the Hackensack Hospital Association since their organ- 
ization. 

CHARLES EK.\NCIS ADAM.S, M. D. 

Occasionally we find an American born with royal lineage, but 
very seldom do we find that lineage traceable through both the English 
and P^rench royalties to the earliest rulers of the Norman-French 
dynasties. 

The sul)jcct of this sketch furnishes such an instance. From 
Charles Martel to Charlemagne, touching the English line in Matilda, 
the wife of William the Conqueror, and again in the Welsh line, in the 
marriage of Sir John Ap. Adam to Elizabeth De Gournai and from 
there to Sir William Adams, Lord Mayor of London in 1630, whose 
brother Henry, the immediate ancestor of John and Samuel Adams, the 
line continuesiin unbroken links to the present Dr. Adams. Still fur- 
ther. Ruth Wadsworth, a descendant of John Alden and daughter of the 
first president of Harvard College, was the great-grandmother of the 
doctor. Thus allied with royal blood on the other side of the water, 
this family of such honored distinction in American statesmanship and 
literature, gains for itself a greater renown where there are no thrones 
to mount or titles to augment the name. 

Rev. John Uuincv Adams, the father of Dr. Adams, was a distin- 
g\iishe(l clergyman of the Baptist church in the city of New York. It 
was here Charles Francis Adams was born March IH, i857. A course 
in the public schools of New York was followed by a three years' course 
in Mount Washington Institute. 

lie then engaged in business, in which he cioitiinud three years. 



HISTORY OF BERC.EN COUNTY 139 

In 1S74 he entered the Hudson River Institute at Chiverack. N. Y., 
and in 1S77 was graduated from the schiiiil with honors. Knterinj^ 
Brown University immediately after this, he was srraduated noii lainlc 
in the class of 1881. 

His medical studies were bei^^un in the New York Hom(t'i)athic Col- 
leg'e, from which he was graduated with high honors in the class of 
1884. Upon the completion of his medical studies Dr. Adams settled in 
Hackensack, where he has not only attained to eminence in his profes- 
sion, but, during the fourteen years' residence here, has also maintained 
the honor and dignity of the family name. 

Upon the declaration of war with Spain, Dr. Adams, who was one 
oi the assistant surgeons of the Second Regiment, N. G. N. J., at 
once went out with his regiment. He was soon promoted to be regi- 
mental surgeon, with the rank of major, and served with distinction 
until the close of the war. 

JOHN RATHBONE RAMSl'.Y. 

John Rathlione Ramsey, clerk of Berg'en county, was born in Wyck- 
otT, Bergen county. New Jersey, April 25th, lSf>2, and is a son of John 
P. and Martha (Rathbone) Ramsey. He was educated at. the private 
school of Professor John C. Nash, in Parkersburg, West Virginia, after 
which he read law in Hackensack with the late George H. Coffey and 
Abraham' D. Campbell, being admitted to the bar in 1883 as an attorney 
and in 1887 as counsellor, after which he beg'an the practice of his pro- 
fession in Hackensack. Being a successful lawyer and a popular Re- 
publican, he was put in nomination for the office of County Clerk of 
Bergen count}' in 1890, but was defeated by a small majority. In 1895, 
however, he was again nominated for the same office and was elected. 
He has successfullv filled the office ever since. 

HKNKV D. WINTON. 

Henry I). Winton, editor and proj)rietor of The Bergen county 
Democrat, the .oldest newspaper published in Bergen county, is the son 
of Eben Winton, the first publisher of this paper. 

Mr. Winton was born February 14. 1848, and has been a resident of 
Hackensack since 18f)l. He entered his father's office at the ag-c of 
fifteen years, and after si.x years close application to business, was made 
a partner in the concern, the firm being known as E. Winton & Son. 
In 1870 Mr. Winton, Sr., retired, the Son becoming sole jiroprietor. 
Under his manag-ement the paper has -g-rown iu popularity and value 
both financially and as an exponent of the party which it represents. 

Mr. Winton keeps pace with all political questions and party move- 
ments. He was made a delegate from the Fifth Congressional District 
to the National Democratic Convention which met at Cincinnati in 188(1, 
and nominated General Hancock and again acted in the same capacity 
in 18")f), at the Nati(mal Conventicm which nominated Mr. Bryan. He 
was a member of the committee of five, of which ex-Governor Russel of 




HENKV L). WIXTUN 



HISTORY OF RERGEN COUNTY 141 

Massachusetts was the chairman, representing' the '"gold states", in 
opposition to the •' silverites" of the party. Mr. Winton acted as chair- 
man of the state committee of the sound Democracy during- the cam- 
paign, the Bergen County Democrat espousing the cause of Palmer & 
Buckner. 

In ISSO, Mr. Winton was elected to the Legislature of New Jersey, 
and re-elected in 1884, for a term of three years, being the only case of 
a re-election of a senator from this county. In 1884 he was clerk of 
the House of Assembly, and at the same time was one of the members 
of the board of managers of the New Jersey Lunatic Asylum, at Morris 
Plains. It was through him, in connection with the late Theodore 
Varick of Jersey City, that the medical and business departments of this 
institution were separated. This has thus far proved a successful 
change. Other institutions of the kind have followed the example of 
this one, to the entire satisfaction of all. 

JACOB L. V.\N BU.SKIKK. 

Jacob L. Van Buskirk, Sheriff of Bergen county, is probably one 
of the most popular officials to be found in the state. He was born in 
Saddle River, N. J., in 1851, and worked at his trade of blacksmithing for 
nine years. In 1852 his father came to Hackensack, where he resided 
for forty-seven years. In 1890 he was elected a member of the Board of 
Freeholders, and re-elected in 1893. In 1892 he was elected director of 
the board and held that position three years, and in Novetnber 1S98, 
was elected sheriff by a majority of 709 votes, he being the only suc- 
cessful Democrat on his ticket, which is proof sufficient that the people, 
not the party, elected him to the office. 

Mr. Van Buskirk has always taken a lively ititerest in everything 
of a public nature, and is also prominent in social and fraternal organ- 
izations. 

.\KK.\M DH B.Al"N. 

The i)arents(if Ahram De Baun were Kev. John Y. and Margaret 
( Iserman ) De Baun, and his grandparents Isaac De Baun and Abram 
Iserman. His father was for twenty-six years pastor of the True Re- 
formed Church at Hackensack. During his pastorate here he was editor 
of the Banner of Truth, a monthly magazine of the True Refi.rnud 
Church. The De Bauns are of French Huguenot descent. 

Mr. De Baun studied law under A. D. Campbell, and was admitted 
to the bar as attorney-at-law in 1877, and as counsellor in 1880. He was 
a partner of Mr. Campbell for a period of seventeen years, but is now 
of the firm of Demarest & De Baun. He was clerk of the Board of 
Freeholders from 1878 to 1895, and member of the Hackensack Improve- 
ment Commission three years, during two of which he was its treasurer. 
For twelve years he has been counsel for the Building and Loan Asso- 
ciatiun of Hackensack. He is a director of the Old Ladies' Home. 



142 



HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 



THOMAS H. GUMMING. 

Thomas H. Cummiag. Justice of the Peace, and a well-known busi- 
ness man of Hackensack, was born in New York city November 6th, 
1839. He received his education in his native city, and, after leaving- 
school, became an employe in a large dry goods store, where he re- 
mained three years. A partnership was now entered into with his 
father in the business of contracting, which was carried on chiefly in 
New York and New Jersey. Among other large contracts secured was 
that for the construction of the Lodi branch of the New Jersey and 




JUSTICE THOM.\S H. CUMMING 



New York Railroad, and also for the line running from Essex street to 
Woodridge. In New York their business was mostly in the line of 
building large sewers. Beginning in 1861, Mr. Gumming conducted a 
business for two years in the oil trade in Greenwich street, following 
which, he was in the leather business for a period of sis years. At the 
expiration of this time he removed to Hackensack, again engaging in 
contracting. In connection with his present business of insurance and 
real estate, he is Commissioner of Deeds and a Notary Public, holding 
the office of Justice of the Peace since 1885. * 



HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 143 

He has always been interested in the Fire Department, and was an 
active member of Hook and Ladder Company, No. 2, for twenty-six 
years, part of this time its Foreman, and is at present an honorary 
member of that organization. For a number of years he has been 
President of the Hackensack Relief Association, and has also been Col- 
lector of License for the Hackensack Commission for the past twelve 
years. 

Mr. Cumrning- is a member of the Royal Arcanum, and a charter 
member of the National Union. He is an active Republican, and 
his father, Thomas Cumming-, Sr., was for years a lay judge of 
Bergen county. 

Mr. Cumming's wife was the only daughter of the late John H. 
Banta, of Hackensack. They have three sons. 

CL.VYTON DEM.A.REST. 

One of the fullest and most interesting of the numerous records of 
the Demarest family, is that of the branch descending from David des 
Marie, whose date of landing in America is taken from an "entry in 
Emigrants Account Book," reading as follows: 
"David des Marie from Picardie, for passage and board when he came 

here on board the Bontekoe. the l')th of Apr. 1()63. ■ ;£39 

for his wife , 39 

& 4 children of 18, 11, <> & 1 yr 97.10 

fl. 17.^.1(1 
David des Marie (son of Jean) was born at Beauchamp, in Picardie 
about the year 1()20, and married Marie, daughter of Francois Sohier, 
Jul}- 24, 1643. Of their six children, three married and reared families, 
Jean, born April 1645, David, Jr., born 1652, and Samuel, born 1656. 
Clayton Demarest, the subject of this sketch, is a lineal descendant of 
David, Jr., second son of the first David des Marest. 

David, Jr.. married Rachel, daughter of Pierre Cresson, April 4, 
1665. The}' had twelve children. Jacobus being the fifth, and through 
him the line descends. He married Leah, daughter of Peter DeGroot, 
March 8, 1707, and after her death married Margrietie Cozine Herring 
September 26, 1719. In all, his family numbered seventeen, the line 
coming down through Daniel the sixteenth child, who was born Sep- 
tember 11, 1738. Daniel Demarest had two sons, James D., and Ralph, 
the lines coming through James D., the eldest, who was born March 20, 
1763, and married Rachel Demarest. Of their five children Abram J., 
born October 4, 1793, was the grandfather of Clayton. He married 
Rachel Blauvelt, April 8, 1815, and the youngest of their seven children, 
David Demarest, was born February 1, 1832, and married Christina De 
Baun September 8, 1853. They had six children the youngest, and only 
son, being Clayton who was born December IS, 1865. 

David Demarest now resides on the farm at Schraalenburgh where 
the Demarests have lived for over two hundred vears. The old house 



144 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEX COUNTY 



has passed throufrh so many changes and has so often been remodelled 
that but little remains of its orig-inal construction. The barn has two 
large overhead beams hewn from red gum trees, and are marked 1721. 

Abram J. Deraarest was a Captain in the National Guard until he 
was thirty-five years of age. His commission papers from the Governor 
of New Jersey, are now in the hands of the family. David Demarest 
enlisted as a volunteer in the Civil War, September 1, l.S(i2, and was 
honorably discharged June 25, 1863. 

Clayton, his son, was educated in the public school in Schraalen- 
burgh, afterwards taking a course of instruction in Thompson's Busi- 
ness College in New York city. Having accepted a position with the 




CLAYTON DEMAREST 

Chemical National Bank, December 1, 1S82, Mr. Demarest has continued 
with that institution to the present time, the past ten years in the ca- 
pacity of Assistant Paying Teller. 

In Hackensack, the home of Mr. Demarest, he has taken an active 
interest in the Fire Department, having become a member of Relief 
Hook & Ladder Company No. 2, in December 1841. in which he has 
served two years as secretary and four years as foreman, being now 
assistant engineer, and is justly proud of his work in the department. 

Socially Mr. Demarest is a member of the Royal Arcanum, Fire- 
man's Relief Association, Exempt Firemen and Hackensack Debating 
Society. He is an active member and teacher in the Sunday School of 
the Second Reformed Church, of which he has been a member the past 
twelve years. 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 145 

Mr. Demurest married Miss Marie Kipp, daug-hter of Nicholas R. 
Voorhis (and <irranddau!rhter of Ralph Voorhis of River Edge) on Sep- 
tember 18, 18S<). They liave three sons. 

A. S. I). DEM A K EST. 

A. S. D. Demarest, the well-known undertaker, of Hackensack, is a 
son of David S. and Marg-aret ( Durie ) Demarest. and was born at Ber- 
genlields in 1834. His father was born at Schraalenburgh in 17'»5, and 
spent his life there, dying in 1877. He was a farmer, and was a de- 
scendant of David Demarest, who settled at River Edge over 200 years 
ago. Mr. Demarest's mother was a daughter of David Durie, of Tenafly- 

He spent his early years amid the scenes of his childhood, subse- 
quently removing to Newburgh, N. Y., where he engaged in business, 
but in 187() returned to New Jersey, and located in Hackensack, where 
he has since resided. 

Upon coming to Hackensack he was interested in the book and 
stationery business for a time, but in 1886 established his present busi- 
ness of undertaking. He is strictly' a business man, has been Treasurer 
of the First Reformed Church for nine years and chorister of the same 
church for ten years, and treasurer of Hackensack Mutual Building and 
Loan Association for over seven years. 

Mr. Demarest was married in 1861 to Miss Lavinia Blauvelt, (laui;li- 
ter of John D. M. Blauvelt, of Bergen county. They have two daugh- 
ters, both married. 

CHAKLES CONKLIN. 

Charles Conklin, the well known real estate man and President of 
the Board of Health is a native of Hackensack and was born thirty-four 
years ago. His father Robert Conkliu was a dry goods merchant and 
held the agency of the county for the Singer Sewing Machine Company, 
for which he sold over 1000 machines in Bergen county- alone. He died 
in 1877. Mr. Charles Conklin was in the dry goods, business during the 
earlier years of his life, and later was Secretary of The Conklin Bros. 
Company. In 1894 he established himself in the real estate business, 
which with that of insurance, yielded him in the aggregate hand- 
some results. 

Mr. Conklin had l)ecn President of the iJoard of Health seven years, 
and was serving as a member of the Board of Freeholders of the county. 
He was a member of the First Reformed Church of Hackensack, and was 
deacon in that body eight years, and also its treasurer. Wv was a mem- 
ber of the Odd pVllows, O. U. A. M., Red Mem. Wheelmen and of the 
Onit.ini Field Club. Mr. Conklin died in is'i"). 

(■.i;OK(;i'. WAKICMAN WIlJvEI.liK. 

(icorge Wakeman Wheeler, son of Charles and Jeruslia ( ilr.idley) 
Wheeler, was born at Eastern, Fairfield County, Connecticut, October 
15th, 1831. The name Wheeler is one well known in judicial and legis- 
lative circles in the State of Connecticut. Ste])lu'ii Wheeler, grand- 



F 




GEORGE WAKEMAN WHEELEK 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 147 

father of Georg-e W., served with distinction for some years as county 
Judg-e of Fairfield county. His father, Charles Wheeler, was member 
of Assembly of his state, servin<f also as Probate Judge of his county. 
Mr. Wheeler's only brother was a member of the State Senate and a 
judge in Louisiana, and continuing down the line, his son George W. 
Wheeler. Jr., is a judge of the Superior Court of Connecticut. Mr. 
Wheeler was graduated from Amherst College in lH5(^, having taken his 
preparatory course at Dudley School, Northamptcm, Mass. After grad- 
uation he taught school for a short period after which he located at 
Hackensack, and conducted classes in Greek and Latin for two years, 
and following this, in 185*>, became principal of McGee's Institute at 
Woodville, Miss., continuing in this position ten years. He was county 
superintendent during three years of this time, and also a member of 
the board of aldermen. Here also he assisted in organizing a local 
cavalry company of which he served as a member with the rank of 
major. In the Masonic order he was a prominent member being High 
Priest of Royal Arch Chapter. Mr. Wheeler has resided in Hackensack 
C(mtinuously since 18f)4, and where he for a time was associated with 
James M. Van Valen and Peter Bogert. Jr.. as judge of the Common 
Pleas Court. For the past thirty years he has occupied his present 
offices, where he is engaged in the management of estates and as a 
broker in stocks and bonds. Interested in various institutions and or- 
ganizations, he has been president and director of Hall and Armory 
Association since its organization, was a director of the Bank of Bergen 
County, and the Hackensack Savings Bank; is treasurer and director 
of the Hackensack Cemetery Company; is a member of the State Geo- 
logical Board, and was for ten years president of the Bergen Turnpike 
Company, and later its vice president. For a long period he was a di- 
rector of the Hackensack Gas Company, and for twenty-seven years rep- 
resented the Home Insurance Company for Bergen County, but resigned 
in 1897, at which time the company as a proof of their appreciation of 
his service, tendered him a letter of thanks accompanied with the pre- 
sentation of a fine gold headed cane. In his religious relations he is an 
Episcopalian and in politics a Democrat. 

Mr. Wheeler was married in 1859 to Miss Lucy Dowie, of Andes, 
Delaware County, N. Y. Their only children are Judge George W. 
Wheeler, Jr., of Connecticut, and Harry D., who resides in Hackensack, 
doing a commission business in New York City. 

Mr. Wheeler is a man of culture and refinement; has been an ex- 
tensive traveller, and is a thorough and capable busines-; mm. 

WILI.IAiM K.\IK. 

William Fair was a native of Scotland, emigrated to America with 
his wife. Mary Hume, and three children. Mary. John and Jane, and 
settled in New Barbadoes, now Hackensack, aljout 178.S. 

He was a cabinet-maker by trade, and carried (m his business (m the 
site of the Fair Homestead, in Hackensack, until his death, which oc- 



148 HISTOKV OF BERGEN COUNTV 

curred February 24, 1<S3'», dying- at the age of eighty-three years. His 
wife died at the age of severity years, September 23, 1824. Mary died 
unmarried, October 12, 1852, and Jane died unmarried, July I'J, 1848. 
John was a successful merchant in New York for many years, and died 
January 6, 1854, aged seventy-six years. 

George Fair, fourth child of William and Mary Hume Fair, was 
born in Hackensack, on the homestead, November 27, 1785. He received 
during his boyhood only a common school education, but the rigid home 
discipline of his Scotch parents early impressed him with habits of in- 
dustry, economy, and self-reliance. 

At the age of fifteen young Fair became a clerk in a dry -goods 
store in New York city, where he continued for many years, and until 
he had saved enough money from his earnings to establish business for 
himself. With his elder brother, John, he engagfed in the dry-goods 
trade on'his own account in Vesey Street, New York city, where for 
many years they continued a successful trade. They invested of their 
surplus means in city real estate, which increased in value on their hands 
and gave both a large competency. 

In 1859 Mr. Fair completed the homestead formerly occupied by his 
father, a substantial residence on Essex Street, where he resided until 
his death, which occurred October 16, 1868. 




sri'T. JOHN •ri;KiirN'i-: 
Mr. John Terhune, the popular and efticient superintendent of tht? 
schools of Bergen county, was born at Midland Park, this county, Au- 
gust 4th, 1846. He was educated there in a district school. Later he 
attended the New Jersey State Normal School, and subsequently East- 
man's Business College, at Poughkeepsie, N. Y. After being engaged 
for some time as an accountant and in mercantile pursuits, he took 
charge of the Midland Park Public School. He held this position for 
about nine years, until appointed to his present oftice, thirteen years ago. 



HISTOKY OK BERGEN COUNTY 149 

To Mr. Terhime belongs the credit of having- i)oi)ularize(l the ob- 
servance of Arbor Day in the schools of the state. He has given a 
great amount of labor, time and money for this purpose. The fine Arbor 
Day programmes which he prepared and printed at his owh expense for 
a number of ^-ears, have been widely distributed throughout the country 
and have received the highest commendation from teachers and school 
officers everywhere. 

Mr. Terhune is also the author of the Teachers' Library Act for 
the establishment of professional libraries in each county, securing 
state aid to the amount of SlOO the first year and $50 each subsequent 
year. The profit derived from the sale of his Arbor Day publications 
he donates to the Teachers' Library; he raised by subscription and dona- 
tions sufficient money to purchase 900 volumes for the library, which, 
with the cost of cases, printing, etc., has cost over SIOOO. This was the 
beginning of what has since proved to be a valuable library. In the 
1 ibrary are to be found many valuable works on the history, theory and 
practice of education. When, in 1891 and '92, the Legislature of New 
Jersey made a special appropriation of SIOOO for school library purposes, 
Mr. Terhune secured S810 of the money for Bergen county. 

The teachers of Bergen county appreciate Mr. Terhune's labors for 
their advancement. A piece of beautiful silver service with which they 
presented him at his wedding anniversary, in 1892, bears the following 
inscription: "From the teachers of Bergen county to their County Su- 
perintendent, John Terhune, as a token of respect and esteem, and of 
their appreciation of his faithful services and eminent achievements in 
the cause of public school education." 

Recently the teachers of the county presented him a \aluable gold 
watch, very finely engraved. 

"Educational Hall" has a complete teachers' library, from which 
the teachers are furnished with books free of cost. 

DK. NELSON HAAS. 

Dr. Nelson Haas, the efficient principal of the High School at 
Hackensack, is a son of Mathias Haas and Melinda Holgate, and was 
born at Chestnut Hill, city of Philadelphia, August 3d, 1838. His father 
was of German descent, a business man of strict integrity, who was, for 
sixteen years, a member of the Common Council of Philadelphia. His 
mother was of Welsh origin, the daughter of a prominent and success- 
ful business man of the city, and for seveenteen years .i niember of the 
State Legislature of Pennsylvania. 

Two of Dr. Haas's brothers founded the Hightstown Classical and 
Scientific Institute and the New Jersey Collegiaie Institute at Borden- 
town, situated on a part of the old Bonaparte property. Mr. Haas be- 
gan teaching at the age of seventeen, having been educated in the 
schools of his native city. In 1859 he went to Port (iibson, Mississippi, 
as teacher of mathematics and physics in the academy at that place, 
but returned North after two years, when he was ajipointed Deputy 



150 



HISTORY OF BERGEX COUNTY 



Provost Marshal of the Ninth District of Pennsylvania, under A. W. 
Bolenius, who was succeded as Marshal by Thaddeus Stevens, Jr.. dur- 
ing Mr. Haas's term of service. In the spring of 1865 he joined Com- 
pany B, Ninth Union League Regiment, Philadelphia, as First Lieu- 
tenant. After a few weeks he was made commissary of the brigade, 
and remained in the service until the close of the war. 

Upon his return, Mr. Haas began the study of law in Harrisburg, 
Pennsylvania, in the office of General William H. Miller, and was ad- 
mitted as attorney in 1868. After a few months' practice at Harrisburg 
he removed to California, and opened a law office at Stockton, where, 
however, he had remained only a short time, when the death of his 
father caused his return East. 

In 1871 he was tendered the position of principal of Washington 
Institute, District No. 32, at Hackensack. N. J., and continued in that 




IN HAAS. PH. D. 



place twenty-four years. Upon the organization in 18'i5 of a High 
School for the entire town. Dr. Haas was made its principal, and, in 
1897, the additional duties of supervising principal of all the schools in 
the township were assigned him, which two positions he still holds. 



MANNING M. KNAPP. 

Manning M. Knapp is a native of Newton, Sussex Count}-, N. J., 
and was born June 7th, 1825. He studied law in the office and under the 
direction of the late Colonel Robert Hamilton, being a^lmitted to prac- 
tice as attorney in 1846, when he began practice in Hackensack, and was 
made a counsellor in 1850. The late Chancellor Zabriskie, at that time 
Prosecutor of the Pleas for Bergen county, resigned his office in 1850. 
because of his removal to Jersey City. Chief Justice Green, then pre- 
siding at the Bergen Circuit, appointed Mr. Knapp to prosecute for the 
State until the office should be filled under the constitution. Governor 



HISTOKY OK HEKCIKX COl'N'TY 151 

Fort appointed him in February, lSr>l, for a full term and by follciw- 
inof appointments he held the office until 18()1. During- these years, he 
^vas building- up a profitable practice in the county and state, taking 
high rank in his profession. In 1875, when Judge Bedle was elected 
Governor, he appointed- Mr. Knapp his successor on the bench of the 
Supreme Court, his Judicial District covering the counties of Hudson, 
Bergen and Passaic. Huds(m being made a district alone. Judge Knajip 
\vas assigned to this new field where he continued until his death which 
occurred on January 26, 1892. The Bar of the State in suitable resolu- 
tions expressed to the Supreme Court, "the universal sorrow felt at the 
pathetic death of Mr. Justice Knapp while in the discharge of his pub- 
lic official duties," and they further desired "to bear witness to his 
virtues, his learning, and the beauty of his character." 

Judge Knapp was married in 1850 to Anna Mattison, a daughter of 
the late Captain Joseph Mattison of the United States Navy. Mrs. 
Knapp continued to make her home in Hackensack after the death of 
her husband, surviving both her children — the daughter, Anna M., wife 
of Walter V. Clark, of Hackensack, and their son, Joseph M. Knapp, 
both having died since the death of their father, and she herself, the 
last of the family, died in 18<)8. 

JOSEPH M. KNAPP. 

Joseph M. Knapp was born at Hackensack October 2t), 1856. He 
went to Colorado immediately after his graduation from Columbia Col- 
lege in June 1878, hoping to overcome pulmonary disease, which was 
apparently making inroads upon his health. He was admitted to the 
bar and practiced law, residing in Colorado thirteen years. Believing 
himself restored to permanent health he returned to New Jersey, but 
not long after he declined and died on May 2, 1895. He was a man of 
Itriifht intellect, hiirh attainments and fine character. 



DK. AliKAM HOPPICK. 

Dr. Abram Hopper was the son of a farmer at Hohokus, and was born 
April 26th, 1797. After taking an academic course of study in New 
York city, he entered the office of Dr. John Rosencrantz, at Hohokus, 
with whom he studied medicine one year, when he returned to New 
Yf)rk, and continued his medical studies with Dr. Valentine Mott, at- 
tending lectures at the College of Physicians and Surgetms, from which 
institution he was graduated at the age of twenty-one. The following 
year he began the practice of medicine, continuing to reside here the 
greater part of his life. He died December 14th, 1872. Making surgery 
a specialty, he was the onlj- operating surgeon in Bergen county for 
many years, and gained an enviable rejjutation in that department of 
his profession. His wife was Euphemia DeWolf. They had five sons 
and two daughters. 



152 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

DK. HENRY A. HOPPER, 

Dr. Henry A. Hopper, who was born August 8th, 1824, was gradu- 
ated from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of New York City in 
1847. His life was spent in Hackensack, where he became a prominent 
practitioner, and also identified himself with the best interests of the town. 
Like his father, he began practice when young, being only twenty-three 
years of age. He was one of the organizers and the first secretary of the 
Bergen County Medical Society, and was the organizer and president 
of the Hackensack Board of Health. 

Dr. Hopper married Maria Colfax Ward, and three children survived 
him, one son and two daughters. 

He was a member of the Second Reformed Church, to which he was 
greatly devoted. He died at the age of fifty-eight years. 

DR. JOHN WARD HOPPER. 

Dr. John Ward Hopper, only son of Dr. Henry A., was born Novem- 
ber 10th, 1856, and choosing the profession of his fathers, was graduated 
from the College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1879, having been grad- 
uated from the College of the City of New York in 1876. While in the 
Medical College, he took a special course in microscopy, afterwards, and 
for sometime making microscopic tests in the office of Dr. Alonzo Clark. 
It was his intention to eventually devote his time to surgery in which he 
was particularly interested. He was for eighteen months on the Surgical 
Stafi" of Roosevelt Hospital immediately after his graduation. Dr. 
Henry Sands now asked him to take his Ouiz-class, which he did for one 
winter, the first time it had ever been given to another. The following 
year he spent in Europe, principally at the Hospitals of Vienna and 
Prague, and during special work under Doctors Virchow, Schroeder and 
others. After his return he began practice here but died three years 
later, on June 30th, 1890, ending a line of physicians holding high place 
not only in the medical profession but in other walks of life. 

PETER WARD. 

Peter Ward was a member of the State Council when he died, and 
was captain of a company of militia during the Revolutionary War. 
His wife died in 1806 at the age of forty-six. Their children were Peter, 
John, Jane, Catherine, Thomas, James, William, and Mary. Peter was 
born at Campgaw, and married Maria, daughter of Robert Colfax, niece 
of General William Colfax, and second cousin of the late ex-Vice Presi- 
dent Schuyler Colfax. The children born of this union were Captain 
Robert C. A., Peter H., Sally Ann, wife of Harden Burgess; Harriet, 
wife of Chauncey Gooderich; Jane, wife of Abram Willis; Mary, wife 
of Anthony E. Fatin; Catherine, died young; Lucy, was first the wife 
of John Hall, and after his death, of Charles Bennett; John; Peryna, 
wife of Henry A. Berry; Maria, wife of Dr. Henry A. Hopper, of Hack- 
ensack; and Elizabeth, wife of John R. Lydecker. 

Peter Ward was a Brigade Major under General William Colfax in 
the War of 1812, stationed at Bergen Heights and afterwards at Sandy 




JACOB BAIIKR 

Commissioner iif the !,l W.ml ll.uktnra.'k. ^. I. 



154 HISTOKY OF BEKGKN COUNTY 

Hook. He was a tanner and currier, a farmer and distiller at Campg-aw. 
In 1812 he beg'an to speculate, was unfortunate, and lost his property. 
He afterwards removed to Booneville, N. Y., where he engaged in farm- 
ing, and died on Long Island. His wife died at the advanced age of 
ninety years, about 1877. 

Captain Robert C. A. Ward spent his early life on the farm. In 
1827 he came to Hackensack, and was employed by D. & J. Anderson, 
merchants, where he remained until the death of one member of the 
firm, John C. Z. Anderson, in 1836. He was employed by the Ander- 
sons in the coasting trade between New York and Virginia, dealing in 
wood and lumber. As early as 1832 he became interested with the firm 
in the purchase of some 3000 acres of land in Virginia, known as the 
"Green Spring- Plantation," the residence of the Governor of the State, 
when Jamestown was its capital. Upon the decease of John Anderson, 
Captain Ward became a joint owner of the business and lands, by pur- 
chase, with the remaining partner, David Anderson, and the firm was 
" Anderson & Ward" until 1840, when Anderson disposed of his interest 
to Captain Ward, and John Ward, his brother, became a partner, under 
the firm-name of R. & J. Ward. This plantation has supplied large 
quantities of wood for the New York market, and especially before 
steamboats began to use coal was the demand considerable, also supply- 
ing large timber for other purposes, besides having several hundred 
acres under good state of cultivation. John Ward died in September, 
1871, leaving a. widow and one daughter, who reside in Hackensack. 

Captain Ward usually made two trips per month between New York 
and Virginia until the connection of his brother with the business, 
when he gave up the duties of the coasting trade to him. During the 
same year, 1840, Captain Ward purchased fifty acres of land in Hacken- 
sack, upon which he resided, having his house located on the corner of 
Main and Passaic streets, and where he carried on agricultural pursuits. 

Captain Ward was one of the stockholders upon the rebuilding of 
the Washington Academy, was one of the Directors of the Bergen 
County Turnpike Company in 1852, when it was converted into a plank- 
road, and for several years was president of the road, and a stockholder 
of the New Jersey and New York and of the New Jersey Midland 
Railroads. 

Captain Ward was united in marriage, September 2, 1841, to Har- 
riet, daughter of Garret Myer, and widow of John C. Z. Anderson, who 
was born June, 1803, and died October 23, 1873. 

CAPTAIN JOHN WAKD. 

Captain John Ward was born at Campgaw, X. J., February 4th. 
181"). Having become a resident of Hackensack in 1857, he did much 
for the good of the villag-e. Energetic and public spirited he became 
one of the organizers of the volunteer fire department and was its first 
chief. He was also one of the originators of the Hackensack Librarv. 



HISTORY OF BEKOEN COUNTY 15S 

and since his death a liandsome bookcase to his memory was phiccd in 
the library especially for books of reference. 

The Second Reformed Church owes much to his untiring efforts in 
solicitinif aid for the liquidation of its debts and to his subsequent sup- 
port. Captain Ward was associated for some years with his brother 
Captain Robert Colfax A. Ward in the transportation of lumber from 
their Virginia plantation. 

He married Leah Maria Uuackenbush. They had two children, 
one of whom, a daughter, lives in Hackensack. He died September Id, 
1872, and his widow died January 18, 1898. 

CAKKET ACKEKSOX. 

It is not known at what date the Ackerscm family was first lepre- 
sented in America, but it was many years prior to the Revolution. The 
lirst of the name was Garret, the great-grandfather of Colonel Garret 
G., who came from Holland, and settled at Old Tappan, in Bergen 
county, but subsequently bought a large tract of land at Pascack, up(>n 
which he placed his eldest son, John. The other two sons, Cornelius 
and Abram, at his death, became the possessors of the old homestead at 
Tappan. The name was then as now, often spelled Eckerson. John 
was born in 1743, and died at ninety-four years of age at Pascack. He 
married Garritje Hogencamp. Their children were Garret and Hannah, 
who became the wife of Nicholas Zabriskie. Garret was born in \~~'>. 
He married Hannah, daughter of John Hogencamp, originally, from 
Rockland county, N. Y. Garret was something of a politicim, was 
twice elected to the Legislature, and was a major in the old State Militia, 
and, with his command, was stationed at Sandy Hook during the War 
of 1812. He was afterwards a major general of the Northern Militia 
of the State of New Jersey, Bergen, Essex and Morris being then the 
only three counties in the northern part of the state. He had four 
children, John, Cornelius, Garret G. and James. Garret G. was born at 
Pascack, April 9, 1810, and educated in the common schools. George 
Achenbach was one of his teachers. He was a schoolmate of Jacob R. 
Wortendyke. Like many of the farmers of that day he engaged in other 
lines of business, having a cotton mill, a distillery and a store on the 
farm. The son took charge of these under the general superintendence 
of his father, until 1840, when he took a farm and established a woolen 
mill of his own. 

The first political experience Mr. Ackerson had, was when he was 
elected Assessor. When but fifteen years old he became captain of a 
company of uniformed militia, and held the office for ten years. In 189.=^ 
he was elected county clerk over John N. Berry, the first clerk elected 
under the new c(mstitution. This necessitated his removal to Hacken- 
sack. He remained in the office three terms, gradually becoming the 
leader of his party. He became counsellor and banker to many of the 
old people of thatday, the vault of the clerk's office sometimes containing 
thousands of dollars in gold and silver awaiting investment. Soon after 



15() HISTORY OF BKKGEN COUXTY 

j^oing- to Hackensack he was made chairman of the Democratic Execu- 
tive Committee in place of Judge Garret Hopper, who -had held the 
position almost ever since the organization of the Democratic party. 

During the time that he was county clerk he raised a company of 
Continentals, becoming the captain, afterward being elected lieutenant- 
colonel of an independent battalion which had been organized by special 
Act of the Legislature. It remained in existence until 18(>1, when most 
of the men volunteered to form the Twent3--second State Regiment for 
service in the war. In 1858 and '59, Hackensack being without a rail- 
road. Mr. Ackerson and others subscribed a sufficient amount of mone^- 
to build a road from this point to intersect with the Erie Railroad. The 
new road was known as the Hackensack Railroad. When Mr. Ander- 
son resigned the presidency of the road before its completion, Mr. Ack- 
erson was unanimously elected to fill his place and although sinking 
S10,000 each year for the first three years, it eventually became a pay- 
ing institution. He and Judge Zabriskie at one time assumed the per- 
sonal responsibility of about S()0,000. 

Colonel Ackerson was active in 1872, in organizing the Bergen 
County Bank which had George Achenbach for its first president, and 
at his death was succeeded by the Colonel who remained in office until 
the bank closed. April 1st, 1877, he took his seat as a Judge of the 
Court of Common Pleas, having been appointed in the winter of 1S7()- 
77, by Governor Bedle. 

Judge Ackerson married in 1837, Sophia, daughter of James I. 
Blauvelt and Martha Wortendyke, of Washington township, who was 
born July 4th, 1821. They had two children — Colonel Garret, Jr., de- 
ceased, and Martha, wife of B. F. Randall of Hackensack. Colonel 
Ackerson died December 12, 1891. 

COLONEL CrAKKET ACKERSON, JR. 

Colonel Garret Ackerson. Jr., son of Colonel Garret G., was born at 
Pascack, N. J., September 15, 1840. He was educated in the public and 
private schools of Hackensack, and in a private school at Claverack, N. 
Y., at that time conducted by the well known Alonzo Flack. In 1859 
he began the study of law in the office of Hon. Jacob R. Wortendyke of 
Jersey City, and was admitted as attorney at the June term of the Su- 
preme Court in 1863. He immediately opened an office in Hackensack 
for the practice of his profession, and in 1878 was made counsellor-at- 
law, having been appointed prosecutor of Pleas for Bergen County in 
18(.f>. 

In 18t>7 he was apjiointed judge advocate of a battalion of Militia 
in the county, and in IS72 was elected Captain of Company C, of the 
Second Battalion National Guards, resigning the office in 1875. He was 
appointed Judge Advocate General of the State of New Jersey, with 
rank of colonel by Governor George B. McClellan in 187'». At this time 
he was appointed President of the Hackensack Railroad. He was also 
for a time on the Board of the Hackensack Improvement Commission, 



HISTOKY Ol' UEKGEX COUNTY 157 

and was secretary and treasurer of the Bertren County Mutual Assur- 
ance Association from 18()3 to lS(i7. 

Colonel Ackcrson was a delegate in 187() to the Democratic National 
Convention that nominated Samuel J. Tilden for the Presidency. 

He was married July <», 18f)3, to Ann Elizabeth, daug'liter of John 
A. Zabriskie and Mary Anderson, and is survived by three sons, John 
Zabriskie, James B., and Garret (t. Ackerson, Jr. 

CAPTAIN ANDREW C. ZABKISKII-;. 

Captain Andrew C. Zabriskie, son of Christian A. Zabriskie and 
Sarah J. Titus, was born in New York city May 30th, 18,53. His g-rand- 
father, Andrew C. Zabriskie, was born at Paranius, N. J., at the ances- 
tral homestead. His fortune, however, was made in business in New 
York, after which he retired to enjoy his declining years in the old home at 
Paramus. His four children consisted of three sons. Christian, A., Martin, 
John, John Jacob and one daughter, Matilda Mary, who became the 
wife of Martin E. Greene. John Jacob owned a cotton mill atHohokus, and 
was well known throughout Bergen County. Martin changed his name 
to the original Polish, Zborowski. He was by profession a lawyer, but 
abandoning practice, he devoted his time to real estate investments, which 
have proved to be of immense value. He has two children, Anna, wife 
of the Comte de Montsaulpin, and Eliott. Christian A. Zabriskie was 
also well known and highly esteemed in Bergen County, and was greatly 
lamented at his death, especially in church circles, being a strong sup- 
porter of the Episcopal Church at Paramus, where he spent much of 
his time. His wife was Sarah Jane Titus, daughter of Captain William 
M. Titus and Maria Gardner, the daughter of Thomas (Gardner, a 
wealthy resident of Paramus, and who was somewhat eccentric in dispo- 
sition. Captain and Mrs. Titus frequently drove from New York in 
their carriage to spend the day with Mr. Gardner, often starting early 
enough to see the sunrise from Weehawken Hill. Mrs. Zabriskie was 
then a little girl, and the Bergen Turnpike, over which she drove, has 
now as its president and controlling stockholder her son, Andrew C. 

Captain Zabriskie is well known in Hackensack partly through his 
presidency of this ancient turnpike which was incorporated in 1802, 
with Colonel John Stevens of Hoboken as its first president, and partly 
by his large real estate interests in the vicinity. 

Andrew C. Zabriskie, grandfather of Captain Andrew, was adjutant 
of the squadron of horse of the county of Bergen, and his maternal 
grandfather, William M. Titus, served in the War of 1812, afterwards 
becoming captain in the Eleventh Regiment New York Artillery. 
When but twenty years of age he enlisted in Company B, Seventh Regi- 
ment N. G. N. Y.. in which he served more than seven y-ears and was 
then elected captain of Company C, Seventy-first Regiment N. G. N. Y. 
Still later he was appointed inspector of rifle ])ractice on the staff of 
this regiment, and upon resigning in 1890, was elected to his old com- 
mand soon after bringing his company up to such an efficient state, as 




CAPTAIX ANDKEW C. ZABKISKIE 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 159 

to inspect one hundred per cent; but after a military experience of near- 
ly twenty-five years he resigned in 1897. 

The captain is a member of man}- clubs, the Metropolitan, City, 
Army and Navy, National Arts and Church Clubs, and to the Holland 
Society, the Military Society of the War of 1812, and the Veterans of 
the Seventh Regiment. He is also a devoted and active Episcopalian, a 
member of the Church of the Incarnation, and a delegate to the Diocesan 
Convention from that church, a manager of St. Luke's Hospital, a trus- 
tee of the Sheltering Arms, the Children's Fold and the Archdeaconry 
of New York, in addition to which he is treasurer of the American 
Church Missionary Society and the House of Rest for Consumptives. 
Interested in the collection of coins and medals since boyhood, he is 
president of the American Numismatic and Archaeological Society. 

Captain Zabriskie was married in 1895 to Frances Hunter, youngest 
daughter of the late Charles F. Hunter, president of the Peoples Bank, 
New York, and Juliana M. W. Zabriskie. Her grandfather passed m(«t 
of his time in New York, although a native of Hackensack, and was for 
some years one of the lay judges of Bergen County. Mrs. Zabriskie's 
grandmother was Susannah Van Campen Romeyn, a daughter of the 
Rev. James Romeyn, well known in the vicinity, early in the century. 
Mrs. Zabriskie is interested in many charities and has a large circle of 
friends. She is a skilled pianist and possesses marked musical talent. 

Captain and Mrs. Zabriskie reside at No. 2 West Fifty-Sixth Street, 
New York, and have a fine country home at Lake Memphramagog, just 
over the Canadian line, where they own Province Island comprising over 
100 acres. They also own and occupy, a portion of each year, a large 
estate called "Blithewood" at Annandale on the Hudson. They have 
two children, Julia Romeyn Zabriskie and Christian Andrew Zabriskie. 

MAJOR JOHN ENGEL. 

Major John Engel, son of Charles and Augusta (Kuhn) Engel, was 
born at Bunde, Prussia, April 16, 1845. After completing his course at 
the Prussian Military School at Schloss Annaburg, in the Province of 
Sachsen, he came to America in the month of October, 1860. Upon 
coming to this country he became identified with its interests, adapting 
himself to the habits and customs by which he became surrounded. A 
mere lad in years, he was a man in mental vigor and high aspirations. 
His military training was soon to be put to use in his new home. 

In August, 1862, two years after landing in America, he enlisted in 
the famous Duryea's Zouaves, 165th New York Volunteers, serving until 
October, 1865. Major Engel served in the Nineteenth Army Corps, in 
the Department of the Gulf, taking part in all the battles of that corps. 
He was in the battles of Cedar Creek and Winchester in 1864, and was 
wounded in the Red River expedition at Cane River Crossing in the 
same year. 

Octobers, 1872, uiK>n the formation of Company C, which became 
:i i)art of the Second Hattalion N. Y. N. G., Mr. Engel enlisted as a pri- 



160 HISTOKY OF BEKOEN COUNTY 

vate, and on the 18th of the same month was elected Serg-eant. On May 
30, 1876, Sergeant Engel was elected First Lieutenant, and under his 
efficient drill, continued with untiring energy and self-devotion, the com- 
pany has ever sustained an enviable reputation. On January 27, 18'»1, 
Lieutenant Kngel was elected Captain. 

The reorganization of the National Guard of New Jersey in 1892 
made this battalion a part of the Seccmd Regiment, and December 7, 1898, 
the Captain was made Major. Upon the breaking out of the late Spanish- 
American War, this regiment, on May 2, 1898, entered the service as the 
Second Regiment N. J. Volunteers, U. S. A., Major Engel going to the 
front in his official capacity. His military career covers in all a period 
of about thirty-three years. 

In private life the Major has engaged in the hotel business, and 
was for eight years manager of the Hackensack Opera House. He was 
postmaster of Hackensack from 1888 to 1892 and has twice been elected 
Justice of the Peace. Socially he is a member of the I. O. O. F., the 
Red Men, Wheelmens' Club, Hasbrouck Heights Field Club, Pioneer 
Club, and a member of James McPherson Post, G. A. R., of which he 
is a charter member. 

He married Miss Mathilda H. (xcrrels at Charlestown, S. C, October 
30, 18()7. 

MAJOR ABRAHAM D. CAMPBELL. 

Major Abraham D. Campbell, deceased, was a great-grandson of 
John, who settled in Closter, and at the close of the Revolution located 
in Washington Township, at Pascack. 

Abraham D., son of David A. Campbell was born October 10, 1842. 
He was educated in the public schools of his native place and at Hack- 
ensack, and after teaching for a short period, during which time he was 
elected school superintendent of his township, he resigned and entered 
the State Normal School at Trenton, from which he was graduated in 
1863. After leaving school he engaged in teaching until 1865, when he 
entered the office of Colonel Garret Ackerson, Jr., at Hackensack as a 
law student, being admitted as attorney at the June term in 1869, and 
as counsellor in 1875. A few months after his admission as attorney, 
he opened an office in Hackensack, and on August 7, 1870, was appoint- 
ed Prosecutor of Pleas to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of 
Colonel Ackerson, and September 1, of the same year was appointed by 
Governor Randolph to fill that office until the close of the next session 
of the Legislature. April 5, i87i he was appointed for the full term, 
and by subsequent appointments held the office for twenty-five years. 

Having enlisted in Company C, Second Battalion, N. (t. N. J., Oc- 
tober 8, 1 872, he was commissioned quartermaster of the battalion with 
rank of first lieutenant, January i4, i873, and on March i5, i876, re- 
ceived the commission of captain. He served during the railroad strike 
of 1 877. and retired with the rank of brevet-major, December i6, i890. 




..Vc..^; 



HISTOKY OK BEKOKN COrNTY 161 

Mr. Campbell \vas married September 22, i8<)') to Ann E. Hopper. 
<laiighter of Jacob Hopper and Lydia Botfert, of Hackensack. They 
had five children, Luther A., Eva, David (deceased), Harry (deceased), 
an<l N. Deraarest Campbell. 

I.l"THKK A. C.'\MPBKI.I.. 

Luther A., son of the late Abraham D., and Ann E. (Hopper) 
Campbell, was born at Hackensack, November 28, 1872. He was edu- 
cated in the public schools and was graduated vvith honors from the 
Union Street High School, of which Dr. Nelson Haas was principal. 
Immediately after leaving- school he began the study of law in his 
father's office, and in June 18'H was admitted to the bar as attorney, 
subsequently becoming associated with his father under the firm name 
of A. D. & L. A. Campbell. In 1S')5 at the organization of the Improve- 
ment Commission, Mr. Campbell became counsel and clerk of that board. 
and was also for several terms clerk to the Grand Jury by appointment 
of Judge Dixon, but was forced to give up this position because of grow- 
ing business in general practice. He has also been chosen counsellor in 
several townships and boroughs in Bergen county. 

Mr. Campbell is a member of Bergen County Lodge No. 7.% and of 
Hope Encampment No. 33, I. O. O. F. 

He was married April 22, 1896, to Miss Mae E., daughter of Richard 
I*. Paiilison of Hackensack. 

COKNKT.Il'S W. BERDAN. 

Cornelius W. Berdan, lawyer, was l)orn in the City of New York 
December 24, 1850. A few years afterwards his father, the late James 
Berdan, moved with his family to Maywood, N. J., where he died in 1862. 
The widowed mother then removed to Hackensack, where Cornelius 
continued his studies in the public schools and at Williams' private 
academy. At the age of seventeen he took a mercantile position in 
New York, but, when twenty-three years of age, left that to study 
law in the office of the late Manning M. Knapp, continuing his studies 
subsequently with the late Garret Ackerson, Jr., being admitted to the 
bar in 1878. He has folk)wed his chosen profession ever since. He is 
a member of the Pioneer Lodge, No. 70, F. and A. M.. and of the 
Royal Arcanum. 

On October i5, i870. he married .Miss Mary 1'., daughler of John 
C. O'Connor, a prominent citizen of .MiH'ord, Conn. One daughter was 
born of this union. 

Mr. Berdan is a man of strong convictions, and has done much to 
promote the cause of good government in his cit}- and county. 



CHAPTER XVII. 
SADDLE RIVER. 

DESCRIPTION AND EARLY SETTLEMENT — CIVIL LIST GARFIELD — ITS 

CHURCHES AND MANUFACTURING — BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 

This township is one of the oldest in the county. It was formerly 
a part of New Barbadoes, and was then embraced in Essex county but 
became a portion of Bergen, in ilO'K 

When first set off it comprised all the former territory of New Bar- 
badoes lying- between Saddle River and the Passaic River to the prov- 
ince line, embracing nearly half the territory of that township. About 
1 772 Franklin township was erected, its boundary including the present 
townships of Hohokus, Ridgewood and Franklin. The following des- 
cription given of the township at that time may be of interest: — 

"It is centrally distant northwest from Hackensack Town eight 
miles, its greatest length east and west being ten miles, its breadth 
north and south eight miles, its area 4i,000 acres, of which about i7,- 

000 are improved. The surface is generally hilly, the First and Second 
Mountains of Essex county crossing the Passaic and continuing 
through it. On the east, however, between the Passaic and Saddle 
Rivers, there is a neck of low and level land, the soil red shale and loam 
the valleys fertile and well cultivated, and the hills well wooded. 
Through the valleys flow several small brooks, such as Singack, Preak- 
ness, Krokaevall, Gofifle, and Ackerman's Brooks. 

"Goffle and New Manchester, a part of Paterson, are the chief vil- 
lages of the township. The population in 1830 was 3397. In 1832 
there were 741 taxables, 4")() householders whose ratables did not exceed 
S30 in value, 80 single men, 7 stores, 8 grist-mills, 1 cotton manufactory, 

1 furnace, 10 saw-mills, 13 tan-vats, 2 distilleries, 1 wool-factory, 506 
horses and mules, and 1324 neat cattle over three years of age. The 
township paid a State tax of S364.10, and a county tax of $690.26." 

Saddle River township is bounded on the north by Ridgewood, 
south by Lodi, east by Saddle river, and west by Passaic river. Aside 
from Garfield which is of recent origin, there are no villages in the 
township, and until recently none but agricultural pursuits have been 
engaged in, the soil and climate not only being adapted to the raising 
of all kinds of grain, but also to the culture of fruit and vegetables. 

The New York, Susquehanna and Western Railroad passes through 
the Township from east to west, with stations at Rochelle Park and 
Dundee Lake. The Bergen county Short Cut, a branch of the Erie 
Road, runs through the entire length of the township from north to 
south, C(mnecting Ridgewood with Rutherford. Of the highways in 
Bergen county that of Slaughter Dam, now designated as the Passaic 
Vallev road, is one of the oldest. This thoroughfare was in use long 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 163 

before the Revolutionary War, and was constantly travelled at that 
period. It was. in fact, the Indian trail formerly on the east side of the 
river. The township has now twenty-seven miles of road, and in i893 
it was bonded in the sum of S')0,000 for the improvement of its high- 
ways. 

The names of many of the early settlers of this township, because 
of the removal of their descendants to other places, have been quite 
forg-otten. Lands entered by these pioneers, in many cases, have 
changed hands, their homes having been transferred to the stranger. 
Among those whose heritage have been assumed by others may be 
mentioned the Post and Home families in particular. 

Among the earliest settlers in Saddle River was the Doremus family, 
the progenitor of whom was John Doremus, who in i74() purchased the 
original property near Areola. He was in i747 united in marriage to 
Miss Maria Lutkins, and on his death in i784 left a son and daughter. Mr. 
Doremus was during the Revolutionary war taken prisoner by the 
British, and confined in the old Sugar House prison in New York city. 
On .his release he returned to his home, where the remainder of his life 
was spent. His son George occupied the homestead until his death in 
1 830, leaving live sons, Richard, Albert, George, John B. and Pe'.er, 
and one daughter, who became the wife of Andrew H. Hopper, well 
known as a General of the Bergen County militia. John B. occupied 
the farm for a period of half a century after the death of his father, 
and subsequently removed to Paterson. His son Jacob occupied the 
homestead afterwards. 

Two brothers of this family. Cornelius and Henry, on their arrival 
in America, first repaired S(juth, but not being favorably impressed with 
the land repaired to New Jersey, one having located in Passaic and the 
other in Morris county. Cornelius died in the latter county, leaving a 
grandson, Henry, who removed to Saddle River, on the homestead after- 
wards occupied by William Doremus, the deed of conveyance bearing 
date July i2, i782. Among his large family of children was Peter, who 
inherited the farm and was united in marriage to a Miss Berry, of Carl- 
stadt, to whom were born children, Henry, William and Cornelius, all 
of whom located in the townshi]). 

George, onl}' son of John Doremus. succeeded to the home i)roperly. 
and married, in 1777, Anna, daugher of John and Catharine Berdan, by 
whom he had the following children: John, born July, 177'), died May 
9, 17')f>; Maria, born November 12, 1783, and became the wife of General 
Andrew H. Hopper; Richard, born June 16, 1786, was a farmer at 
Preakness, N. J.; Albert, born April 25, 17'H), spent most of his business 
life in stage-driving and carrying the mail between Hoboken and Hack- 
ensack and on the Albany mail route; George, born, November 13, 17'»4, 
was a blacksmith, farmer, and inn-keeper: John B. born June 26, 17'W; 
and Peter, born 1801, was a blacksmith by occupation, for many years 
was a teacher, served as justice of the peace in Saddle River township 
for several terms. 



1()4 HISTOKY OF BERC.EN COUNTY 

The Berdan family are of Holland extraction, the first member uf 
whom was Rinear. He emigrated from his native land at a very earh' 
date, and choosing Bergen county as a favorable point of location made 
Haclvensack his residence. His sons were six in number of whom two 
John and Rinear, settled on farms, afterwards owned by Rinear J., 
and G. V. H. Berdan respectively. The former was married to 
Miss Ann Romaine, and had one son, John, whose wife was Miss Hen- 
rietta Van Dien. Their son, Rinear, was united in marriage to Charity 
Ryerson, and became the parent of two children, John and a daughter 
Ann. The former married Miss Mary Van Houten, and had two sons — 
Rinear and Garrabrant — and a daughter, Mrs. Daniel Romaine. 

John, the second son of the first Rinear, the progenitor of 
the family, had three sons — John, Richard and Stephen — and one daugh- 
ter. John, who served with credit in the war of iSi2, is represented bj- 
a son, Cornelius Z. 

John Berdan, died August 22, iS7i, at the age of eighty-one years; 
and his grandfather, Rinear, also lived to be eighty years of age, dying 
January 28, i843. 

Charity Ryerson, his grandmother, was born in i7()0 and died in 
1 848. She was a descendant of Joris Ryerson, a native of Amsterdam, 
who settled first on Long Island, and afterwards, in i70i, in Bergen 
county, with his two sons. The children of Rinear and Charity Berdan 
were John R. and Ann, wife of Richard Berdan. 

Mary Van Houten, born June 22, i79i, was the wife of John R. Ber- 
dan, and died January 12, 1862, leaving three children — Rinear, G. V. H., 
and Ann, the wife of Daniel Romaine, of Lodi. 

Rinear J. Berdan was born on the homestead June 28, 1809, and 
married March 7, 1833, Catharine, daughter of General Andrew H. 
Hopper and Maria Doremus, of Saddle River township. Both the 
Hoppers and Dt)remuses were among the earliest settled families in 
Bergen county. 

Mrs. Berdan was born December 22, 184(), and by this union the^- 
have one son and one daughter, viz.: John, married Christina M. Berry; 
both are dead. The former died July 20, i87(), the latter February 19, 
1 88 1, leaving one son — Walter H. Berdan. The daughter Mary Ann, 
became the wife of William H. Cadmus, of Saddle River township. 

The Hopper family are also among the oldest families in Saddle 
River. One branch is descended from Andrew Hopper, who emigrated 
from Holland and had children, among whom were Peter and Andrew. 
Andrew joined the army during the Revolutionary conflict, and fell in 
one of the engagements. Peter settled in the township on land still in 
the family and had three sons, Ciarret, Andrew, and Henry, all of whom 
remained in Saddle River. Andrew married and became the father of 
twelve children, of whom two, John A., and Henry A., located in the 
township, the latter on the homestead which was the birthplace of his 
father. Another representative of this family was Henry Hopper, who 
resided in the j'resent Franklin township and had four children, — two 



HISTOKY OF BEKC.EN COUNTY 1()5 

sons and two daughters. The sons were John H., and Andrew H., the 
latter of whom married Maria Doremus and had seven children, of 
whom Henry A., occiii)ied the homestead, and a daughter. Mrs. Rinear 
J. Berdan. 

Peter Hopper, owned some 300 acres of land, and was the first of 
the family that settled the homestead where Sheriff Hopper now resides. 
He died in 1818, at an advanced age. His wife was Anna Doremus, 
who died at the age of eighty-eight, and bore him the following chil- 
dren: Keziah, wife of Jacob Demarest; Mrs. Voorhis, Garret, Andrew 
P., and Henry; all were married and reared families, excepting Garret. 

Of these children Andrew P. Hopper was born on the homestead in 
1777, which he afterwards inherited, and resided there during his life, 
engaged in farming. He also took part in politics, representing his 
township in the board of chosen freeholders, and for two terms served 
as county collector. He served as sheriff of Bergen county for one term, 
and for one term represented his Assembly district in the State 
Legislature. 

Henry A., son of Andrew P. Hopper was born August 3, 1819. He 
was sheriff of Bergen county and member of State Legislature one term. 

The ancestor of the Garretsons (the name being spelled Garretson 
or Garrison by members of the same family) was Peter, a native of 
Holland, who left his native land in 1664 and settled in Bergen county, 
where he purchased an extensive tract of land. Among his sons was 
John P., who married a Miss Ryerson and had children, — John, Jacob, 
Garret, and one daughter. John P., spent his life upon the homestead, 
and here his death occurred. His sons John and Garret remained in 
the township, the latter having married a daughter of Ralph Romaine 
and had eight children, among whom were three sons, John (i., Ralph, 
and Abram. 

Two branches of the Van Riper family claim Saddle River as their 
residence. Jeremiah resided on the Passaic river, above the Dundee 
bridge, and early purchased land of a very old resident named Van 
Horn. His sons were Simeon, Stephen and Nicholas, all of whom 
remained in the township. The latter branch is represented by John 
N. Van Riper. 

The Zabriskie family in Saddle Kiver are descended frorn Andrew 
Zabriskie, whose son Christian had three scms, Andrew, Cornelius and 
Abram. Abram married Maria Zabriskie, of New Bridge, and had one 
son. Christian A., who took up his residence in Saddle River townshij). 
The daughters were Mrs. Cornelius Van Houten and Mrs. Henry Demarest. 

Johannes Berdan was the pioneer of the family by that name in 
this township. He had two children, John and Anna, and was grand- 
father of John, Jr., Richard, Ste])hen and Mary and great-grandfather 
of Cornelius Z. Berdan. 

The Terhunes, Ackermans and Romaines and a branch of the Dem- 
arest family were also settlers in the township, some of them coming 
here before the Revolution. 



lf)6 HISTOKY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

Philip Van Bussom early settled in Saddle River, having- purchased 
land of Dominie Marinus. He had children — John, Andrew, Peter, and 
two daughters. The sons located in Saddle River, Peter having- retained 
the homestead and married. He had three children. 

OKGAXIZATION. 

It is difficult to learn the exact date ot the erection of Saddle River 
as an independent township. In the list of freeholders immediately 
following, the first of these officials served in the year i794. It may, 
therefore, be assumed that Saddle River was erected as an independent 
township either in that or the previous year. 

civil. LIST. 

The list of freeholders it is possible to give complete since 1794. 
The remainimg more important township offices cannot be secured for 
the period prior to 1862, as the records are not obtainable. The free- 
holders are as follows : 

1794, Jacob Berdan, Martin Ryerson ; 179b, Samuel Van Zaen, John 
C. Bogert; 1797-1801, 1809-15, George Doremus; 1797, John Benson, Jr.: 
1798-1801, John Dey; 1802-6, Henry Mead, John Garrison; 1807-11, Jacob 
Ackerman; 1807, Richard Degray; 1808, William Colfax; 1812, Isaac 
Van Saun; '13-14, Robert Van Houten; '15-18, Martimus Hogencamp; 
'16-18, John J. Berdan; '19-20, Isaac Van Saun; '20-25, Garret P. Hop- 
per; '22-25, '30-31. Martimus Hogencamp; '26, Jacob Berdan; '56-27, 
Richard Ackerman; '27, Adrian R. Van Houten; '28-29, Andrew H. 
Hopper, Richard Doremus; '30-'34, Samuel C. Demarest; '32-35, '43-45, 
Andrew P. Hopper; '35-36, Perigan Sanford; '35, Henry Doremus; '37-39, 
Henry P. Hopper; '37-38, Turnier Van Iderstine; '39-42, Henry C. Van 
Houten; '40-42, Cornelius Post, Jr.; '43, '45-46, Andrew B. Van Bussum; 
'44, Henry P. Doremus; '46-48, John B. Doremus; '47-48, Henry Cole; 
'49-51, Peter A. Hopper; '49-51, '57-61, Andrew C. Cadmus; '52, Simeon 
G. Garrison; '52-54, William Doremus; '53-54, John A. Hopper; '56, 
Cornelius p. Doremus; '56-57, David Alyea; '58-61, Peter I. Demarest; 
•62-64, Richard Van Winkle; '62-67, '68, Henry A. Hopper; '()3-64, "66, 
John Vreeland; '66-67, James G. Cadmus; '68-70, Cornelius R. \'an 
Houten; '69-71, John G. Garrison; '72-74, J. W. Doremus; '75-77, John 
B. Schoonmaker; '78, James V. Joralemon; '79-81, '82, Martin Romaine; 
'82-92, Albert Bogert; '93-96, William Readio; '96-98, William H. Fair- 
child; '98-99, C. V. B. Demarest, who died in August 1899 and the va- 
cancy filled by appointment of Tunis W. Vreeland. 

The remaining important officers are : 

1862. — Township Clerk, James V. Joralemon; Collector, James C. 
Post; Assessor, Jacob W. Doremus; Township Committee, Augustus 
Hasbrouck, William P. Doremus, A. C. Cadmus, George Doremus, John 
A. Hopper. 

1863. — Township Clerk, James V. Joralemon; Collector, Gustavus 
A. De Groot; Township Committee, Andrew C. Cadmus, Augustus 
Hasbrouck, George Doremus, Wm. P. Doremus, Wm. A. Van Houten; 
Assessor, Jacob W. Doremus. 



HISTOKY OK BEKGEN COUNTY 1 f)7 

1864. — Township Clerk, James V. J<iralenion; Cdllcctor, (iustavus 
A. De Groot; Assessor, Jacob W. Doremus; Township Committoe, An- 
drew C. Cadmus, Augustus Hasbrouck, Cieorg'e Doremus, \Vm. Dore- 
mus, Wm. A, Van Houten. 

1865. — Township Clerk, Isaac A. Hopper; Collector, (iustavus A. 
Dc Groot; Township Committee, Augustus Masl)r()uek, Wm. Doremus, 
Henry P. Doremus, John A. Hopper, John C. Post. 

1866. — Township Clerk, Isaac A. Hopper; Collector, John C. Post; 
Assessor, Jacob W. Doremus; Township Committee, Henry P. Dore- 
mus, C. C. Post, John B. Schoonmaker, Garret H. Ho])per, Andrew C. 
Cadmus. 

1867. — Township Clerk, Isaac A. Hopper; Collector, Ahdrew C. 
Cadmus; Assessor, James V. Joralemon; Township Committee, Henry 
P. Doremus, C. C. Post. J. B. Schoonmaker, Garret H. Hopper, G. V. 
H. Berdan. 

1868. — Township Clerk, John B. Schoonmaker; Collector, Cornelius 
Z. Berdan; Assessor, James V. Joralemon; Township Committee, Wil- 
liam Doremus, G. H. Hopper, Henry P. Doremus, G. V. H. Berdan, 
Cornelius C. Post. 

1869. — Township Clerk, John B. Schoonmaker; Collector, Cornelius 
Z. Berdan; Assessor, James V. Joralemon; Township Committee. Wm. 
Doremus, G. V. H. Berdan. Andrew Cadmus. Henry A. Hopper, Frank 
Henry. 

1870. — Township Clerk, John B. Schoonmaker; Collector, Cornelius 
Z. Berdan; Assessor, James V. Joralemon; Township Committee, Wm. 
Doremus, Kinear J. Berdan. Peter H. Doremus. Albert Alyea. Frank 
Henry. 

1871. — Township Clerk. David P. Alyea; Collector, Jacob W. Dore- 
mus; Assessor, James V. Joralemon; Township Committee, Cornelius G. 
Cadmus, John F. Barclay. Ral])li G. Garrison. Albert Alyea. Frank 
Alyea. 

1872.— Township Clerk, David P. Alyea; Collector, Jacob W. Dore- 
mus; Assessor, James V. Joralemon; Township Committee, C. G. Cad- 
mus, Ralph G. Garrison, Wm. Doremus, R. T. Snyder, Frederick Baker. 

1873.— Township Clerk, David 1'. Alyea; Collector, Jacob W. Dore- 
mus; Assessor, Isaac A. Hoi)])er; Township Committee, Cornelius G. 
Cadmus, R. G. Garrison, Wm. Doremus, Richard T. Snyder, Frederick 
Baker. 

1H74.— Township Clerk, David P. Alyea; Collector. Jacob W. Dore- 
mus; Assessor, Isaac A. Hojjper; Township Committee, A. E. Miller. R. 
(J. Garrison, WilliamT)oremus, R. T. Snyder. 

1875. — Township Clerk, David P. Alyea; Collector, Jacob W. Dore- 
mus; Assessor, Isaac A. Hopper; Township Committer, Tunis W. Vree- 
land, John Madden, R. T. Snyder. John G. Garrison, George Hubschmitt. 

1876.- -Township Clerk, John E. Kipp; Collector, Jacob W. Dore- 
mus; Assessor, Isaac A. Hopper; Township Committee, Tunis W. Vree- 



168 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

land, John Madden, John G. Garrison, George Hubschmitt, P. H. Van 
Iderstine. 

1877. — Township Clerk, John E. Kipp; Collector, James G. Cadmus; 
Assessor, Isaac A. Hopper; Township Committee, John G. Garretson. 
George Hubschmitt, T. W. Vreeland, Adam Hopper, John W. Doremus. 

1878.— Township Clerk, John E. Kipp; Collector, J. H. Van Saun; 
Assessor, Isaac A. Hopper; Township Committee, Adam Hopper, John 
W. Doremus, Andrew W. Ochs, John G. Garretson, William H. Gill. 

1879.— Township Clerk, William H. Cadmus; Collector, J. H. Van 
Saun; Assessor, J. H. Kipp; Townihip Committee, Adam Hopper, John 
W. Doremus, William H. Gill. 

1880.— Township Clerk, William H. Cadmus; Collector, John B. 
Caldwell; Assessor, John E. Kipp; Township Committee, William H. 
Gill, Henry Stiehl, John B. Schoonmaker. 

1881.— Township Clerk, W. H. Cadmus; Collector, John B. Caldwell; 
Assessor, John E. Kipp; Township Committee, John B. Schoonmaker, 
Henry Stiehl, William H. Gill. 

1882.- Township Clerk, W. H. Cadmus; Collector, John B. Caldwell; 
Assessor, John B. Kipp; Township Committee, Albert Alyea, Gilbert 
B. Ackerman, Richard L. Snyder. 

1883.— Township Clerk, W. H. Cadmus; Collector, John B. Caldwell; 
Assessor, John E. Kipp; Township Committee, Richard L. Snyder, Gil- 
bert B. Ackerman, Albert Alyea. 

1884.— Township Clerk, W. H. Cadmus; Collector, John B. Caldwell; 
Assessor, John E. Kipp; W. H. Doremus on Committee. 

1885. — Township Clerk, John B. Shoonmaker; Collector, John B. 
Caldwell; Assessor, Tunis W. Vreeland; Gilbert B. Ackerman on Com- 
mittee. 

1886.— Township Clerk, John B. Shoonmaker; Collector, Jacob W. 
Doremus; Assessor, Isaac A. Hopper; Richard L. Snyder on Committee. 

1887.— Township Clerk, W. H. Cadmus; Collector, Jacob W. Dore- 
mus; Assessor, Isaac A. Hopper; W. H. Doremus on Committee. 

1888.— Township Clerk, W. H. Cadmus; Collector, Jacob W. Dore- 
mus; Assessor, Isaac A. Hopper; Gilbert B. Ackerman on Committee. 

1889. — Township Clerk, W. H. Cadmus; Collector, Jacob Doremus; 
Assessor, Isaac A. Hopper; Township Committee, Peter Alyea, elected 
for three years, and Henry A. Hopper for two years. 

1890.— Township Clerk, W. H. Cadmus; Collector, C. V. B. Demar- 
est; Assessor, Isaac H. Hopper; Albert Conklin on Committee. 

1891.— Township Clerk, W. H. Cadmus; Collector, C. V. B. Demar- 
est; Isaac A. Hopper; Henry A. Hopper on Committee. 

1892.— Township Clerk, W. H. Cadmus; Collector, C. V. B. Dem<-vr- 
est; Assessor, Isaac A. Hopper; Peter Alyea on Committee. 

1893.— Township Clerk, Herman Bechtel; Collector, C. V. B. Demar- 
est; Assessor, Isaac A. Hopper; Richard L. Snyder on Town Committee. 

1894.— Township Clerk, Herman Bechtel; Collector, C. V. B. Dem- 
arcst; Assessor, Peter J. Smith; Gerritsen on Committee. 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEX COUNTY 1,6') 



1805.— Township Clerk. Herman Bechtel; Collector. C. N. B. Dema- 
rest; Assessor. Peter J. Smith; Township Committee, Peter Alyea 
elected for three years, W. H. A. Mavnard for one vear. 

189f..— Township Clerk, Herman Bechtel; Collector, C. V. B. Dem- 
arest; Assessor, ; Township Committee, Charles E. Martin, 

George MacDonald. 

1897.— Township Clerk, W. H. Cadmus; Collector, Herman Bechtel: 
Assessor, Smith Chittenden; George MacDonald on Committee. 

1898.— Township Clerk, W. H. Cadmus; Collector. Herman Bechtel; 
Assessor, Smith Chittenden; Sela Doremus on Committee. 

GAKFIELD. 

The village of Garfield is properly an adjunct of Passaic — and lies 
east of that city, just across the river. The land was originally owned 
by the Cadmus and VanWinkle estates. About the year 188.'?, Gilbert 
D. Bogart, and Henry Marcellus. began improvements in the place. 
Bogart bought lands of James G. Cadmus and his property was laid off 
into town plots. He was the founder of the East Passaic Land Com- 
pany and in this way became instrumental in building up (iarfield. As- 
sociations began to be formed, buildings were erected, the B.-rgen Cduu- 
ty Short Cut Railroad was built, a depot given to the village, and a 
post-office for the people was established. With these accommodations 
for the general public, stores were built, two churches erected and two 
very important manufacturing industries are now in operation. The 
Mr. G. Cadmus above mentioned is of Holland lineage. 

John Cadmus, the first to locate on this site had two sons, Andrew 
and Cornelius, and five daughters. The sons fell heir to the homestead. 
Andrew married Katrina Doremus and has no descendants now residing 
in the township. Cornelius was united to Jane VanRiper and had six- 
sons, John, (iarret, David, Andrew, James and Cornelius, all of whom 
with the exception of Cornelius settled in Saddle River. David located 
on the homestead, and his son James (i. Cadmus was the one above 
mentioned. 

John Cadmus suffered much during the Revolution. His home was 
exposed to the depredations of the British, and he himself was finally 
captured, taken a prisoner to the old Sugar House in New York, where 
his health became so impaired by confinement that he only lived two 
weeks after being released. In May i898 the village was organized in- 
to a borough, and William O. Bush elected Mayor. 

M.\NliK.\CTfKIN(;. 

Fritzsche Brothers established their chemic.il works inlS'»2. They 
manufacture essential oils, chemical preparations, etc., and deal in fine 
drugs. Their store is in New York. They employ fourteen men, have 
one seventy-five horse power engine and consume some 3(K»,()fl() pounds 
of cloves annually in the manufacture of the oil of clo\'es alone. Their 
main works are in (iermanv. 



170 HISTOKY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

The Haminersclilag ISIanufacttiring Company is also located in this 
town and has had an existence here since 18y(). They employ about fifty 
men, and manufacture wax paper. It is a New York enterprise. 

CHUKCHKS OF. GAUFIELD. 

The Presbyterian Society of Gariield was org-anized in February, 
188S, and soon after presented with lots upon which to build. A church 
of fourteen members was organized in May, and work began on the 
building in June. Mr. James Hall was ordained and installed. He saw 
the edifice completed, but his pastorate terminated in November 1889, 
before its occupancy. For a time the church was supplied with students. 
A call was extended to Mr. James S. Young, and he was ordained and 
installed in June, 1890. 

The church then enrolled nineteen members. The property was 
mortgaged for S1500; all its furniture, save 100 chairs, was borrowed. 
Toward the new pastor's salary a grant was made from Synod's Fund of 
S.^UO. Soon the church was properly furnished and a library procured 
for the Sunday School. The close of the first year saw the membership 
increased to sixty-four, with 205 on the roll of the Sunday School. Cer- 
tain special helps toward the salary were relinquished after the first 
year, and later the requests for aid from Synod's Fund were diminished. 

On the fifth anniversarv of Mr. Young's pastorate the cancelled 
mortgage was publiclv burned. The membership grew from nineteen in 
1890 to 141 in 189f). During the past six years over S9000 has been raised 
for all purposes. Of this sum $978 has been given to benevolences of 
the church at large. 

THK KEFOKJIED CHUKCH. 

The Reformed church in Garfield was organized in January, 1891- 
Rev. Seibert its first pastor was installed in October, 1891, and died in 
1892. His son, the Rev. George S. Seibert, succeeded, remaining until 
the month of September, 1896, when the present pastor, the Rev. W. C. G. 
Myles, took charge. The members of the cotisistory are C. Terhune, 
C. Miller, O. Kevit, F. (iarrctson and G. Schooley. 

THE CIU'KCHES. 

The Passaic Valley Union Chapel was the first organization for 
religious worship in the township. It originated in a small gathering 
for religious instruction at the house of Mrs. Henry Van Riper. It num- 
bered at first but three scholars, but gradually increased until it was 
thought expedient to secure a building. For this purpose Ralph G. 
Garrison, Henry A. Hopper and Peter D. Henderson were elected as a 
board of trustees and subscriptions were solicited for the building of the 
church. The land was donated by Henry Van Riper to be devoted for 
forty years to the uses of a union chapel. The edifice was erected in 
187.1, the building dedicated in December of that year, and in which 
services have been held ever since. 



HISTOKY OK 1!ER(;EX COUNTY 171 



HENKY IMAKSEI.I.X-S ESQ., OK GAKEIEI.D. 

Henry Marsellus. the well known real estate agent of former years 
in Passaic, and one of the two promoters of Garfield, is a native of the 
city of Paterson, N. J., born April Id, 1S2(.. Mr. Marsellus speaks of 
himself as coming from Holland, French extraction, and can show a 
long and honored ancestry. The progenitor of the Marsellus stock was 
Pieter Van Marselis who had been in the di])lomatic service of Denmark, 
and was made a member of the knightly order of the Danebrog, by 
Frederick HI, King of Denmark and Norway, September I7th, i(>4.^. 
He arrived in the Province of New Netherlands in the ship Beaver with 
his wife, four children, and two servants in the month of May, ibf.i. 
and settled in the Dutch out-post colony of Bergen, now part of Jersey 
City. In August 1673, he was appointed a "Schepen" of Bergen, but 
the Dutch Government about this time traded the Province of New 
Netherlands for Surinam, when he was thrown upon his own resources. 
Pieter Van Marselis died September 4th, 1681, and as a mark of special 
honor was buried under the old Dutch Church on Bergen Hill. A 
grandson of Pieter Van Marselis named Edo, bought two large tracts 
of land in what was then the wilderness of North Jersey, one at Preak- 
ness, and the other extending from Dundee Lake through Paterson to 
the Great Falls of the Passaic. These estates were divided among his 
five sons, and one of these sons, whose lands were near the Great Falls, 
was the grandfather of Henry Marsellus the subject of this sketch. 
Peter E. Marsellus the father of Henry was born in Paterson in ISlXt, 
but in 1836 he moved t,o Passaic where he died in 1882. He was a 
builder by trade and erected a number of houses still standing in the 
city of Paterson. 

To Peter E. Marsellus were born five sons and two daughters, but 
of these only Henry and his youngest sister Helen, are alive. Henry 
was raised a farmer, and talks to-da\% with a good deal of just pride of 
the straight furrow he could draw in his youth. Having a taste for 
business Mr. Marsellus in 1868 moved to Passaic where he became one 
of the most successful business men in real estate, in the state of New 
Jersey, handling, some years, close upon half a million dollars. His 
office in Washington Place was popularly known as the "Eel Pot," and 
was the centre for the leading business men of the neighborhood. In 
those days, Mr. Marsellus became the recognized leader in real estate, 
and was then, as he is now, familiarly known as "Boss" i or as Judge 
Barkalow insists on spelling it " Baas." i 

On November 'Hh 1S4.S. Mr. Marsellus was married to Miss Cather- 
ine Van Winkle, a daughter of Jacob and Annie Van Winkle, and 
granddaughter of James Van Winkle, by whom Mrs. Marsellus possesses 
her wealth, being his only issue — Mr. James Van Winkle, who was a 
remarkable man in his way, was a justice of the jjeace for over twenty- 
five years, and died widely rcspectc;!, in l.S')4. Marines Van Winkle 
the "-randfather of James Van Winkle was a chair maker, and a full si't 




HKNKV MAKSKI.I.US 



HISTOKY OF BEHGEN COUNTY 173 

of his chairs of the mist ex:[uisite w irknianship, manufactured over 175 
years ago, are now in use in the commodious parlors of Mrs. MarseUus. 
Mr. Marsellns is full of joke and reminiscence, and can tell of 
happy acquaintance with such men as Daniel Webster, Robert Collier, 
Vice President Hobart and Attorney General Grig-gs. The following 
incident is worthy of preservation: When Mr. Marsellus and his wife 
were returning from Boston on their honeymoon, and had boarded a 
train for New York, there came into the same car a stranger, who took 
his seat immediately behind them, and the young husband seeing the 
stranger laden with papers and periodicals, which he carelessly threw 
into the seat he intended to occupy, whispered to his wife, " We evi- 
dently are to have the company of a book peddkr." The seeming book 
peddler turned out to be the famous orator and statesman, Daniel Web- 
ster. An acquaintanceship thus sprang up in this casual way. The 
great man asked the young farmer and his wife to accompany him to his 
hotel, where they all dined together, and in the evening all three at- 
tended theatre in company. 

Mr. and Mrs. Marsellus have but two children living, Herbert and 
Annie (Mrs. C. Demerest), out of a family of seven. There home is 
beautifully situatecTat the upper end of Garfield, and Mr. Marsellus 
says their diamond jubilee is just twenty-years ahead, which he and his 
worthy consort are looking forward to enjoying. 

CORNELIUS V. B. DEMAKEST. 

Cornelius V. B. Demarest was born at Dobbs Ferry, Westchester, 
county, N. Y., June 11th, 1854, and is the eldest son of Daniel Demarest 
and Mary Cordelia Garrison. When he was one year old they located 
at Hackensack, N. J., residing there about two years, when they became 
infected with the western fever and removed to Michigan. After s])end- 
ing several j-ears in the West and South, the family returned to New 
York city in 1863, and inlSOf) settled at Passaic, N. J., where for more 
than thirty years the name of Daniel Demarest has been prominently 
before the public as a reliable Architect and Builder. In holding differ- 
ent positions of trust, by his integrity and fair dealing he has earned 
the respect and esteem of all. 

Cornelius V. B., the subject of this sketch, after leaving the public 
school, entered the private Academy of Professor John A. Monroe, at 
Passaic, afterwards taking a course in Packards Business College, in 
New York city. Being inclined to mechanics, he then served an appren- 
ticeship with the New York Steam Engine Works then located at Pas- 
saic. After working at his trade of machinist, for a time he was em- 
ployed as master mechanic in the New York Belting and I'acking 
Company works at Passaic. Afterwards he entered the employ of the 
Standard Oil Works at Philadelphia and later at the Garfield Pumping 
Station at Garfild, Bergen county, now the national pipe line, where he 
continues in charge of the largest and most powerful oil i)uin])s in the 
section, if not in the United States. 




CORNELIUS V. B. DEMAKEST 
(Deceased) 



HISTOKY OK BERGEN COUNTY 175 

He was married in May 1881, to Miss Belle, daughter of William 
and Rachel Christie of Passaic. Their children are two sons, Daniel, 
and David Van Buskirk, and one daughter, Hilda Rae. 

The Demarest family are of French origin, and honorably trace 
their line of descent from the Huguenots, who were driven from France, 
by religious persecution. They first sought homes in Holland and 
afterwards in Long Island in counties bordering on the Hudson and 
according to the oldest records appear to have been among the first 
settlers in Bergen county. From actual data the connecting links have 
been established through eight generations between the subject of this 
sketch and David Demarest the first of that name to settle in Bergen 
county and who emigrated in the year 1663. Cornelius V. B. Demarest 
purchased a home in Garfield, Saddle River township, in 1888. In 1891 
he was elected Tax collector of Saddle River township and re-elected in 
1895, having served with entire satisfaction in that capacity for seven 
years. His constituency elected him in 1897, to the county board of 
Chosen Freeholders. He was defeated for Assembly a few years since 
when the party failed to elect, the successful candidate being David Za- 
briskie the present county Judge. Mr. Demarest was a member of the 
citizens committee who (>rganized the Borough of Garfield in 1898. He 
died in August 1899. 

HEKMAN BECHTEL. 

Herman Bechtel, proprietor of the Dundee Lake Hotel, Dundee 
Lake, and Collector for the township of Saddle River, is a native of 
New York citv, and was born January 29, 1867. He is the son of Albert 
and Adelia ( Blauvelt ) Bechtel, his mother being the daughter of Abram 
Dow and Jane E. Blauvelt, representatives of old families of New York. 
Albert Bechtel, the father of Herman, is a native of Stuttart, Germany, 
and is a brother of August, who was private secretary to the king of 
that province. Albert Bechtel came to this country when nineteen years 
of age, locating in the city of New York, where he served in the capacity 
of expert bookkeeper for many years, for an old standard firm. Subse- 
quently he came to New Jersey and built up the coal and fertilizing 
business where he is now. He is also postmaster and station agent of 
Dundee Lake. When five years of age Mr. Herman Bechtel was sent 
to the Hoboken Academy, N. J., and subsequently to Rockland College, 
Nyack, N. Y., where he remained with his grandmother, going to school 
there until fourteen years of age. He then came to New Jersey, but after- 
wards spent five years in the city of New York in the capacity of mes- 
senger boy. Life was thus begun at the foot of the ladder, but advance- 
ment was rapid, and, in 1885, he found himself ])artner with his father in 
the coal and fertilizing business at Dundee Lake. In 1894 he gave up the 
coal business and took the hotel which he still conducts. In 1892 land was 
purchased of Gillian Zabriskie, and aycaror so later the hotel was erected. 

Mr. Bechtel is a representative man of his town, and as necessity 
requires is advanced to public positions of trust and honor. He was 
elected first a member of the Board of Education, and served as clerk of 




HKKMAX BECHTKL 



HISTOKY OK BEKOKN COUNTY 




BKCHTKL S HOrHI,. DINDKK LAKK 

this Board two years. He was elected Township Clerk in lS'i3 and re- 
elected in 1896, but resigned that position in 18<)7 to accept the collector- 
ship of the town, which position he still holds. He has also been a 
prominent member of the County Committee of the Democratic party. 

Mr. Bechtel was married to Miss Claire Cornet in 1889, and has two 
children. 

JACOB DKMAKIvST. -' 

Jacob Demarest who located (m land in the vicinity of Fairlawn 
in Revolutionary times, was the father of Peter J. Demarest, who died 
March 19, 1888 at the advanced age of eighty years. 

The children of Peter J., were: Margaret, Jacob, Maria, Janus J. 
Ciarret H. and John H. 

James J. Demarest occujnes the homestead when he erected a house 
in 1890. On January 2.Sth, 18()9 he was married to Miss Charity Banta, 
daughter of John H. Banta, of Orvil. Mr. Demarest is a successful far- 
mer. He is a descendant of the Demarests who came to America to find 
an asylum, from religious persecuticm. They were French Huguenots, 
first going to Holland and thence to America, where they settled on 
L(mg Island, afterward removing to Bergen County. The family which 
is numerous, were am()ng the earliest settlers of this part of New Jersey- 



CHAPTER XVIII. 
FRANKLIN. 

DESCKIPTION — CIVIL LIST — EARLY SETTLEMENTS — INDIANS — VILLAGES 

WORTENDVKE — WYCKOFF CAMPGAW OAKLAND — RAILROAD — 

MANUFACTURING — JAIL AND COURT HOUSE — CHURCHES 
— SCHOOLS — BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 

Franklin is one of the oldest townships in Berg-en County. It took 
its name from Governor William Franklin, the natural son of Dr. Benja- 
min Franklin. He was born about 1730. Who his mother was is not 
known. In 1762 he was appointed by Lord Bute Governor of the prov- 
ince of New Jersey. He entered upon the duties of his office February 
28, 1763. 

The township is in the northwesterly corner of the county, and is 
bounded on the north by Passaic County, on the east by the townships 
of Hohokus and Ridgewood in Bergen County, and south by Ridgewood, 
Midland Borough, and on the west b}' Passaic County. The southern 
part of the township is hilly, and the northern is mountainous. It is 
well watered with lakes and streams, and the Ramapo River runs 
through its entire width near the northern boundary. The hills, val- 
leys and mountains afford some of the most picturesque views in the 
county. The Ramapo Valley from Pompton, near the line of Franklin 
township, to Hohokus township, and for miles beyond, flanked as it is 
by the Ramapo Mountains on the north and long- stretches of meadow- 
land and the undulating hills on the south, afford some of the most de- 
lightful views to be found in the State. Some of the old residences 
here go back to a period before the Revolution. Rodman M. Price, one 
of the honored ex-Governors of New Jersey, had a beautiful and spacious 
residence in this valley, in Franklin township, near the Hohokus line. 
Visitors from .Europe to this retired spot have often admired the rare 
beauty of the mountains with the river running at their foot. Farther 
up this valley was once the country residence of that famous lawyer, 
Hugh Maxwell, district attorney of New York City, and still farther up 
the valley the wealth and refinement of the great metropolis still find 
desirable places for country residence. 

Judge Garrison of Oakland fully describes the scenery of the beau- 
tiful valley of Ramapo in verse as follows: 

"Here the Ramapo River passes along. 

And the birds in the trees enchant us with song. 

While lilies and tulips the meadows adorn, 

And fields sparkle bright with rich dews of the morn. 

This beautiful valley is encircled around 
By forests and mountains where pure springs abound; 
And the elms, oaks and maples are shading the rills, 
Meanderinar with music between the green hills. 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 179 

Here groves of tall pine trees can also be seen, 
Arrayed in their robes of perennial green; 
And thousands of fruit trees, when in their full hluoin 
Emit sweet odors the air to perfume." 

civil, OKGANIZATION. 

P^ranklin became a township separate from Saddle River township 
about 1772. May 13th of that year it is named in the book of the board 
of freeholders as the township of Franklin, and for the first time is rep- 
resented in that body by Jacobus Bertolf only, though most of the 
other townships were represented by two freeholders at that time. At 
the January session of the Court of Sessions for that year, David Van 
Norden, Isaac Bogert, and Abraham Rutan were appointed constables 
for Franklin township. Before 1772 Franklin belonged to Saddle River 
township, and before that township was organized it belonged to the 
ancient township of New Barbadoes. 

We give below a list of the chosen freeholders of the township since 
1794, the date at which the freeholders became a board separate from 
the justices. The justices and freeholders who preceded the change 
made in 1794 are named in the general county history, as they are not 
found in the records identified with the townships which they respec- 
tively represent: 

1794, Joseph Board; 1794, Peter Slutt; 1795, Henry Wanmaker; 17'»S. 
Garret W. Hopper; 1796-97, Peter Wend; 179()-1800, Andrew Hopper; 
1798-1813, Garret Lydecker; 1801, 1803, 1806. 1812, John Hopper; 1801-2, 
David P. Harring; 1802-4, Abram A. Quackenbush; 1803, Albert Wilson; 
1804-13-18, Abram Forshee; 1805, John Van Blarcom; 1805-12-14. C. 
Stor; 1806-8, Abrm. Harring; 1807-11, Peter Ward; 1809-11, Henry \'an 
Emburgh; 1815-18, Daniel Gero, Jr.; 1819-20, John A. Van Voorhis; 181'», 
John Hopper; 1820-24, 1826-27, William Hopper; 1821-24, Henry Van 
Emburgh; 1825, David I. Christie; 1825-27, 1834-35, John Ward; 182S- 
30, Martin Van Houten; 1828-30, John Mandijo; 1831, 1833, John Wil- 
lis; 1831, Christian A. Wanmaker; 1832, David I. Ackerman; 1832-.V% 
Isaac I. Bogert; 1834-35, Garret Van Dien; 18.%-.38, William G. Hopper; 
1836-38, John H. Hopper; 1839-40, Henry B. Hagerman; 1839-41, Henry 
A. Hopper; 1841-43, Simeon Van Winkle; 1842-44, Henry I. Spear; 
1844-4(,, Anthony Crowter; 1845, 1849-51, John R. Post; 1846-48, Wil- 
liam P. Van Blarcom; 1847-48, James S. Wanmaker; 1849, 1853-.54. 
James Van Houten; 1850-52, Stei)hen D. Bartholf; 1852-54, Abram 
Wortendyke; 1856, Garret Hopper; 1857-60, John D. Marinus; 185"(-61, 
John Halsted; 1861-63, (kirret D. Ackerman; 1862-64, David C. Bush; 
1864, Daniel Ackerman; 1866-67, 1871, Garret J. Hoi)per; 186<)-67, 
Samuel P. Demarest; 1868-70, Garret A. Hopper, John H. Speer; 1872- 
75, Peter H. Pulis; 1876, Daniel D. Depew; 1877-78, Charles White; 
1879-80, Abram C. Wortendyke; 1880-85. Abram C. Wortendyke; 1S85- 
86, David H. Spear; 1886-88, John R. Carlough; 1889-94. David H. 
Spear; 1894-'»7, John H. Post; 1897-1900, Thomas Post. 



ISO HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 



EARLY SETTLEMENTS. 



Cornelius Schuyler, son of Arent Schuyler, was one of the first set- 
tlers in Franklin township in 1730. The Carretson from Bergen Town 
came and settled near where the Ponds Church now stands. The Van 
Aliens owned six hundred acres on the Pond Flats. George Ryerson and 
Urie Westervelt (1709) purchased an extensive tract of the Indians, ex- 
cepting the land at Sicamac and land on the present farm of Isaac D. 
Van Blarcom, as it was an Indian burial-ground. The Berdan family 
settled at Preakness, in this vicinity, in 1720. John Stek, now Stagg. 
"settled back of Knickies' Pond" in 1711. This is undoubtedly part of 
the Judge Millard farm at Sicamac. Stagg and his descendants lived on 
this farm till about sixty years ago. Yan Romaine, yeoman of Hackeu- 
sack, purchased 600 acres, located in the vicinity, from the Willcox & 
Johnson patent. May 19, 1724, and sold 200 acres to Rulef C. Van Houten, 
March 17, 1737, for seventy pounds. This property in modern times has 
been occupied by John V. Hennion, William De Baun, and John Acker- 
man. Simeon Van Winkle came in i733 and settled on the property 
lately belonging to Tennis Van Slyke. For four or five generations the 
Van Winkles honored the consistory of the Ponds Church. August i7, 
1 720, found John and William Van Voor Haze, yeomen of the county of 
Bergen, buying of John Barberie, Peter Fauconiere, and Andrew Fres- 
near, merchants of New York City, 550 acres of land at Wikhoof ( so 
spelled and said to be of Indian origin), present Wyckoff, The tif ty odd 
acres were allowed for roads. William Van Voor Haze was married first 
Susanah Larne, May i7, i7i7, and second to Maria Van Gildee, January 
2, 1728, and died July i7, i744, leaving five sons and four daughters. 
An extract from his will says, "I give and bequeat unto my eldest son. 
Jacobus Van Voorhees, the big bybel, for his first birthright, as being 
my heir-at-law. I will that my youngest dater, which I have by myn 
dear beloving wife, which is named Marytie Van Voor Haze, that she 
shall have for her poorshon the sum of ^iV." To his other daughters, 
he gave twelve pounds each. His son entered the king's service and 
died in i767. His son Albert lived on the present Uriah (Juackinbush 
farm, and Abraham lived on the Lewis Oouman's farm. He died Feb- 
ruary 5, 1 830, aged ninety-four. Near his dwelling, at twilight, shortly 
before his death, seeing a light upon the knoll, he chose that spot as his 
resting place, and there he slumbers; and beside him sleeps his wife, 
Margaret Hinter, who followed him to the grave in the May following 
his own death. John lived on the Henry Blauvelt farm. 

The Alburtises were also early settlers here, near the Van Voor 
Haze property. The Winters, Courtins, Youngs, Storms, Ackermans, 
and (Juackenbushes all came before i760, and the Van Gilders about 
1 730. The Pulisfelts (now Pulis) lived on the Peter Ward farm, and 
the Bogerts on the Henry Vandenhoff property, going into Yaupitugh 
Valley. VandenhoiT is said to have lived in a cave for some time about 
1 760. These are the names of many of the early settlers in what is now 



HISTOKY OF BKKGKN COUNTY 181 

Franklin township. Many more there may have been, but their names 
are lost or forg-otten. 

Early in the eighteenth century purchases were made of the Indians 
of tracts of land lying to the southward of the "Wilcox and Ji)hnson 
patent." Arent Schuyler, of Albany, and Anthony Brockholst, of New 
York City, were interested in these lands. The Garretsons from Bergen, 
the Van Aliens, the Berdans, the Staggs, the Romaines, the Van Wink- 
les, and the Van Voorhises were purchasers of extensive tracts in this 
section forty, fifty, or sixty years before the Revolution. lOO years ago 
in the present township of Franklin the lands were generally taken up, 
although the territory was sparsely inhabited. Extensive tracts were 
under limited cultivation. Then there was scarcely a manufacturer in 
the township. Cornelius Wortendyke, it is true, was manufacturing 
about 1 00 years ago at Newtown, but nearly all the industry was con- 
rined to the raising of corn, wheat, and potatoes. These same abundant 
crops to-day at present jirices would make any economical farmer rich 
in a few vears. 

This township in the Revolutionary period became important as a 
place of refuge and retreat. The courts of Bergen County were driven 
hither from Hackensack. Washington and his army were hovering in 
the vicinity, keeping an eye on the British invader; a British Tory was 
hung by Sheriff Manning near Oakland, in this township, as is recited 
elsewhere in this history. Cornelius Schuyler, son of Arent Schuyler, 
was one of the earliest settlers in Franklin township in i730. The 
(iarretsons from Bergen Town were also early settlers. 

VII.LAOJvS AM) HAMI.ETS. 

There are no large villages in this township; the people generally 
are devoted to agricultural pursuits. Abundant crops of grapes, both 
wild and cultivated, are grown in this township, the apple crop is also 
abundant. The New York, Susquehanna and Western Railroad, for- 
merly the Midland, and before that the New Jersey Western, which had 
its first inception in this township through the energy and enterprise of 
Cornelius A. Wortendyke some years since, gave a sudden impetus 
and excited the highest hopes for the future growth of the township. 
This road enters F'ranklin from Ridgewood township, about one mile 
below Midland I'ark, and passing nearly midway through it till con- 
fronted by the Ramapo Mountains. In crossing the river near Oakland 
it runs along the foot-hills of these mountains, leaving the township for 
Pompton about one mile from Oakland. Thus it runs about ten miles 
through this township. 

The villages and hamlets locally named as such in the townsliip are 
Wortendyke, Wyckoff, Campgaw, Oakland. 

The Ramapo Indians sometimes visited the settlements in the town- 
ship. The^' were known formerly as the Hackensacky Indians but are 
more properly the race described as the "Jackson Whites." They bear 
little resemblance to the Indians, vet as tradition gives it they are des- 



182 HISTORY OF BEKOEN COUNTY 

cendants of Hessians, Indians and negroes but know nothing of their 
ancestry, so ignorant have they become. Thej' dwell in huts or caves in 
the sides of the mountains, and subsist on fish and game, principally. 
When Judge Garrison was a bo3\ one of these people, an old man, Uncle 
Rich De Groate by name, would often leave his home for a visit to the 
villagers, coming among the people without hat, or covering for his feet 
and legs to his knees. When asked whether or not his lower limbs did 
not suffer from excessive cold he would reply by asking the same ques- 
tion concerning the exposure of the face. He died probably sixty years 
of age. 

WOKTENDYKE. 

The village of Wortendyke, formerly called Newtown, was founded 
by Cornelius Wortendyke in the year 179(). Tradition says two brothers 
of this family located at Pascack, and from thence Cornelius removed to 
this place where in 1812 a wool carding mill was erected for the immed- 
iate county trade. Abraham Wortendyke, his son, succeeded him and 
in 1832 changed the business from wool to cotton. Subsequently this 
was changed to a silk mill. A few years since the village was called 
Godwinville. Another silk mill was added later on and since then these 
mills have been enlarged and re-enlarged giving employment to hun- 
dreds of hands. The mills are now operated by Francis H. Mayhew. 

Cornelius H. Wortendyke procured the original charter of the New 
Jersey Western Railroad, and in 1867 was elected its president. In 1870 
this road was consolidated with the New Jersey, Hudson and Delaware, 
and the Sussex Valley Railroad, under the name of the New Jersey 
Midland Railway Company, of which Mr. Wortendyke also held the 
office of President. When the railroad was built through this place a 
station, a hotel, and other houses were erected, the supposition being 
that Wortendyke would rapidly increase in population. The hotel is 
owned by John T. Ramsey, and the store by H. T. Lawrence, who came 
into possession of this property in 1881, and has operated it successfully 
ever since. Mr. Lawrence has also been postmaster since 1888. 

The mills of Wortendyke, and the railroad shops have called hither 
many native Hollanders, nearly all of whom are professing Christians 
and members of the old Holland Reformed Church. 

SCHOOLS. 

In 1811 Cornelius Wortendyke leased for school purposes a small lot 
near where the Methodist Church now stands. Isaac Blauvelt and 
Jacob Quackenbush, owned this ground for twenty-five years, which was 
leased and on which a schoolhouse was erected, probably the first in the 
locality. In 1822 this structure was burned, when a new one was built 
this in turn being abandoned probably forty years ago, for another. It 
was a brick structure which stood at the foot of the hill on the road to 
Ridgewood ; and was erected in 1859. This was next abandoned for the 
new school house, built in 1880 at a cost of $2500. In the old school of 
1 822, Henry Westervelt, Tunis Crum, Isaac Sherr, Richard Ellsworth, 
Ashbel Abbott, John Turner, Rev. Matthew Mallinson, Amos B. How- 



HISTOKY OK BEKGEN COUNTY 183 

land and Asa W. Roath, are mentioned as the teachers. The Methodists 
have a church at Wortendj-ke, which was organized December 14, 1S05. 
Mark McCraken, Aaron Ackerman, James Dods, John Van Blarcom, 
Cornelius Lozier, James Stagg-, Morris Sharpenstine, William Van Blar- 
com, and Alexander McCall were its first trustees. John Morrow, de- 
ceased, a worthly and most saintly man, during a long and useful life 
was most active and efficient in the erection of a new Methodist Church 
here in iS30. In iS68 another church was erected and the old one re- 
movefl. This edifice, was greatly aided in erection through the means 
and efforts of Cornelius A. Wortendyke, but Mr. Morrow never ceased to 
be an active and efficient supporter of this church according to his 
means, and was a most exemplary member of this Methodist Church to 
the day of his death. The Methodists also have a prosperous society at 
Campgaw, and a church edifice erected in 1856. 

Rev. Thomas Hall is now pastor of the church. Rev. H. Luback is 
pastor of one of the Reformed churches, the other churches not having 
a pastor at this time. 

WVCKOFF. 

Wyckoff, is a beautiful little village in this township on the Sus- 
quehanna railroad, twenty-eight miles from the city of New York, and 
owes its existence to the railroad. 

Abram Van Vorhis probably' built the first house in the place. He 
owned a store, cider mill, distillery and blacksmith shop on grounds 
now occupied by Samuel Winters residence. He afterwards removed to 
Wortendyke where he bought property in Midland Park. 

Among the early settlers at Wyckoff and vicinity should be men- 
tioned Abram Van Voorhis, James Van Blarcom, William Winters, 
Jacob Stur and David Folley. The sons of William Winters were Henry, 
William, Cornelius, John, Barney, Abram and Peter, all of whom settled 
in this vicinity. Henry, son of Henry, now eighty-three years of age, and 
Samuel Winters, his grandson, still live here. Cornelius Ackerman 
and Andrew Ackerman lived here in an early day. John P. Ramsey, 
one of the original owners of the village, rebuilt the hotel now leased 
to Benjamin Coleman. At an early day a cotton mill stood below the 
hotel on the Van Blarcon estate. No manufacturing is now in the place 
save a cider mill erected about 18')0 by Daniel Winters. 

Daniel DePew was the first agent of the railroad and the post office 
was kept in the depot. After Mr. DePew came, one or two changes were 
made, when the present agent, Mr. Peter S. Pulis, took charge of the 
staticm July 1, 1883. 

Stoat & Board, Samuel I'ulis, the De Pews and Mr. J. E. Mowerson 
have all been merchants in the place. Mr. Mowerson, present owner of 
the store and also postmaster, has done a large business here since 1877. 

CAMPCJAW. 

This hamlet has a store, post office, saw mill, grist mill and a shoj) 
or two all under the name of Peter H. Pulis & Son. Mr. Pullis was the 



184 HISTUKV OF BEKC'EN COUNTY 

first agent of the road here, and under his management business always 
kept on the increase. His son, Samuel Pulis, and grandson, William 
G. Pulis, are now in charge. 

THE REFOKMED CHURCH AT WYCKOFF. 

In 1803 a movement was made for a new church, and out of this 
grew the building of a church at W^xkoff. Many of the members of 
the Ponds Church lived near Wyckoff. 

The Reformed (Dutch) Church at Wjckotf was established about 
ninety-two years ago. It has a large and convenient structure, bfiilt of 
stone on foundations solid enough to last for centuries. 

The old church had stood for sixty years, and a new edifice seemed 
necessary. Judge J. A. Van Voorhees, A. Stevenson, and others of 
Wyckoff and vicinity prevailed, when the old church was partly taken 
down and a new one erected, but in 1840 to 1845 the old hexagonal 
church was restored and reconstructed, much in the shape it is at pres- 
ent, a parallelogram or oblong square. The deed for the Wyckoff 
Church is dated September 27, 1805, to William Pulisfelt, Conrad Stur, 
Lawrence Ackerman, and James L. Ackerman, the consistory of the 
Ponds Church, with Judge Van Voorhees as treasurer and general ad- 
viser or director. The steeple was struck by lightning in 1829. In 
1811, Rev. John Demarest became pastor of the church or society at the 
Ponds and of the Wyckoff Church. Mr. Demarest was born and edu- 
cated in Hackensack, at the famous school of Dr. Wilson, and studied 
theology under Dr. Froeligh. Mr. Demarest subsequently became a 
member of the True Reformed Dutch Church, and at one time owned 
the farm on which Major Andre was executed at Tappan. He died 
April 8, 1837. The two congregations at the Ponds and Wyckoff were 
divided May 10, 1822, and the Ponds Church was reorganized. The 
two churches were incorporated in 1824. The division line between 
them commenced at the house of Garret Post, near High Mountain, 
thence to John Ackerman's house, thence to Abraham Winter's house, 
and thence to Yaupough. Rev. Zachariah H. Kuypers, son of the pas- 
tor of that name at Hackensack, in April, 1825, became pastor of the 
Ponds and Wyckoff Churches. He also was educated under Dr. Wilson. 
He was succeeded by Rev. W. J. Thompson in 1842. Thompsoi was a 
graduate of Rutgers in 1834, and appointed tutor of ancient languages 
there in 1838, and filled that position with great credit. These churches 
now entered upon a new and brighter day of activity and success. He 
remained pastor till 1845. From this time they have had separate pas- 
tors. Rev. B. V. Collins became pastor of the Ponds Church, Novem- 
ber, 1845, and remained there to January, 1868. Rev. A. G. Ryerson 
became pastor of the Wyckoff Church April 7, 1846, and remained till 
May 24, 1864, the church prospering under his ministry. He was suc- 
ceeded by. Rev. William B. Van Benschoten, April 11, 1865. Van Ben- 
schoten was a graduate of Rutgers College and Theological Seminary. 
He remained there about six years, and died while pastor of a Reformed 
Church at Ephrata, in the State of New York. He was succeeded at 



HISTOKY OK BEKGEN COUNTY 185 

Wyckoff by Rev. S. T. Searles 1872, who was pastor many years. The 
Rev. A. Westeveer, successor of the Rev. William Faulker, is the 
present pastor. 

The church has a memliership of l(>() persons, and has for its officers 
at the present time the following: Riders— Samuel D. Winters, Thomas 
H. Winters, Daniel Snyder, James E. Mowerson; Deacons — Charles F. 
Hopper, Charles Duryea, John J. Vanderbeck, John W. May. 

0.\KL.\ND. 

The little village of Oakland is situated on the Susquehanna rail- 
road near the border line of Franklin township, about thirty-three miles 
from New York city. It is one of the beautiful and picturesque places 
in the county. The Ramapo Mountains on its western side give it that 
peculiar charm which a mountain only can give little villages, when 
nestled along its side under its sheltering protection. The village has 
a reputation worthy of an enterprising people, and with its railroad, 
hotel and stores, and two prominent manufacturing enterprises, it is on 
the progressive. 

The place was known l.SO years ago by the name Youghpaugh — 
Yoppo — and was the seat of government of the county for three or four 
years, dating from the year 178(t. It was known also as the "Ponds," 
that name coming from the Church, one of the oldest in the township. 
There was a small pond of water in this vicinity, and a grist mill stand- 
ing near the church, served the people long before the Revolution. The 
Rev. Guilliam Bertholf probably preached here as early as 1710, and for 
twenjy years thereafter. The worshippers in that old church, whoever 
they were, formed the first settlement at the Ponds. The Garretsons 
from Bergen Town came here as early as 17()0. The Van Aliens owned 
600 acres on the Pond flats, and the Bogerts and others, as will be seen 
in the general sketch, were early on this land. At a later day, Aaron 
Garrison and his brother Abram, who was drowned in the Hudson 
River in 1804, settled in the upper end id' the valley. Martin Van 
Houten early occupied the ground upon which the residence of (ieorge 
Calder now stands. A stone house was first built on that site. Still 
later, the Hoppers, Judge (Harrison, John Bush and David C. Bush with 
others came into the place. The "Ponds," however, assumed no im- 
portance until after the building of the railroad in 1870, when the depot 
was erected, a post office was estalilished, and H. W. Bush started a store 
where Lloyd & McNomes are now. Henry Bush was the first postmaster 
in the village, after which David C. Bush, to whose enterprising spirit 
principally, the village owes the office, succeeded to the position, which 
he held from time to time, for sixteen years. The hotel was built in 
1882. 

THK KAII.KOAD. 

David C. Bush, at the instance of C. A. Wortendyke, became a 
prominent factor in the building of the railroad through Oakland. 
These two men probably secured more stock for the enteri)rise and diil 



18t> HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

more to insure success in that undertaking than any other two men in the 
company'. Land for the yard and depot and the right of way through 
the place was given by Mr. Bush, who was also one of the largest con- 
tributors to the present depot built by the citizens. Upon the comple- 
tion of the road, in March, 1869, five or six hundred people gathered, 
and under the inspiration of a couple of barrels of apple-jack and good 
cider, with the booming of cannon, the event was properly chronicled in 
the hearts and minds of the people. The opening exercises began at 
one o'clock. Beginnihg at two o'clock, speeches were made by ex-Gov- 
Price, Judge Garrison, Isaac Wortendyke, Dr. William Colfax, cousin of 
Vice President Colfax, and others, and at six o'clock refreshments were 
furnished, which terminated the gala exercises of the day. 

This part of the Ramapo Valley in an early day went by the roman- 
tic name the Indians gave it. It was subsequently the Ponds, then called 
Scrub Oaks, and perforce of family influence was known still later as 
Bushville. Upon the completion of the road, there was a meeting of the 
citizens to select a new name, some preferring that of Breakcliff, some 
Pleasant Valley, some Bushville, and so on. The meeting was held at 
the store of Henry Bush. J. P. Storms was elected Chairman, and Z. 
H. Post, secretary. Different names were offered by different parties, 
and after all disscussions were over, Mr. David C. Bush arose and pro- 
posed the name "Oakland," which was chosen, and which name it now 
bears. 

THE AMERICAN E. C. & SHULTZ POWDER COMPANY. 

This concern began operations in Oakland in i890, for the manufac- 
ture of smokeless powder, for sporting purposes purely. They purcjiased 
1 20 acres of land from Judge Garrison. David C. Bush, James Van 
Blarcom and Jacob A. Terhune, and began the erection of a number of 
buildings, the largest of whieh is thirty by 300 feet. They employ 
thirty men and have a capacity of 2000 pounds daily. Captain A. W. 
Money is the managing director and treasurer of the company. 

O.'VKLAND HAIK WORKS. 

A. D. Bogert was manufacturing fillings for mattresses, chairs, etc., 
under the name of the Wood Type Manufacturing Company, in and before 
1 876. He made his product from wood fibre, weeds, etc., and carried on 
the business for many years. This industry was largely increased b}- 
the Wilkens Brothers, who came to the village in i894, and purchased 
from S. P. Demarest forty acres of land, upon which they erected a 
number of buildings. They ship fibres, hogs' hair, and various pro- 
ducts from every known country on the globe, by train load, and do a 
business in curled hair and in materials for brushes, mattresses, etc., 
world wide. Thev employ abont lOO men. 

JAIL AND COURT HOUSE. 

The first Court House and Jail on the public Green, Hackensack, 
was burned in 1780. 

The second Court House and Jail was built at Youghpaugh (Oak 
land) in the township of F^ranklin, where the courts of the count}- were 



HISTOKY OK BEKGEN COUNTY 187 

held for a fe\v years. Youg-hpaugh — Yoppo — was only the County Seat 
ad-interum, and courts seem to have been held there, or in the Ponds 
Reformed Church during- those troublous days, to such judicial extrem- 
ities had the British driven us during the Revolution. The Jail was 
built near the Sheriff's dwelling- about three hundred yards north of the 
station, where the foundations are still to be seen. 

Abraham Manning was Sheriff of the county and resided near the 
Oakland station. Among others confined in the Jail, was a notorious 
traitor, named Noah Collington, or Kellingham, who was hung on gal- 
lows erected on a little mound near by which bears the traitor's name to 
this day. He had been indicted for murder and robbery in the county, 
and while attempting to escape in disguise acrob> the Hudson near Fort 
Lee, in order to get within the British lines, he was captured near that 
place and brought to the Jail. Upon trial and conviction he was sen- 
tenced to be hung. During the inclement winter he was allowed a fire, 
whereupon he attempted one night to burn down his prison house and 
make his escape. Vanderhoff, the miller, while watching his dam dur- 
ing a freshet, discovered the threatened conflagration and giving the 
alarm the fire was soon extinguished, and Collington was manacled and 
subjected to much closer confinement. Upon Manning's return he was 
infuriated and beat his prisoner most severely with a club. A physician 
came to alleviate the sufferings of the poor man, who was hung early 
the next morning. 

An old Englishman named "Rench" was teaching school opposite 
the Ponds Church. At the time the Jail and Court House was destroyed 
he left this school and joined the refugees at Hopperstown — now Ho- 
hokus. Sheriff Manning hearing the noise of guns, there, together 
with a few neighbors hastened to New Prospect where they saw a com- 
pany of Refugees or Tories, coming from Hopperstown towards New 
Prospect. Concealing themselves behind a stone wall they waited 
while the enemy approached. The old teacher was recognized by the 
sheriff who deliberately aimed at his head, but the bullet only passed 
through his hat, and hid itself in a tree. After peace was declared the 
old teacher ventured to the Ponds but the sheriff was too patriotic to 
allow him to remain. 

From a discourse delivered in the Oakland church, November .^Oth, 
1 876, we take the following historical notes of the old church in early 
days, known in connection with the old Paramus church as the " Panne" 
(Ponds). There is no record of the first church, and all the informa- 
ti<m in regard to its early history must be found with that of other 
churches, with which it was connected. 

The Rev. Guilliam Bertholf returned from Holland, alter his ordi- 
nation, if)'M, and became the pastor of Hackensack and Acjuackanonk 
churches. He was registered at Second River, now Belleville, in about 
1700 and at Ponds i710. This was the first public worship of (lod in 
this place. Here Rev. Bertholf remained over twenty years. He was 
also the first minister at Ta])pan, and besides, ordained elders and 



188 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

deacons at Raritan, and administered the sacraments. He was for many 
years the only Dutch pastor in New Jersey. The old Log Church was 
located east of the new cemetery, near the public road, and was the first 
religious structure north of the Passaic River, but there is not a vestige 
of it left to mark the spot. 

Rev. Henricus Coens succeeded Mr. Bertholf in the Log Church in 
1725, ministering at the same time in the churches of Belleville and 
Pompton. 

The Rev. Johannes Van Driessen, the next minister, was settled in 
Aquackanonk in 1735, and was pastor of Pompton and the Ponds in con- 
nection with Aquackanonk. Mr. Van Driessen was the last preacher in 
the Log Church. 

The plot of land upon which stands the present (1876), church was 
given by John Romaine and Jacob Garrison, a part of which was appro- 
priated for a graveyard. 

The edifice was built of stone, hexangular in style, the roof converg- 
ing to a point. The materials were provided by the congregation. The 
interior of the church was furnished with chairs. There was a high 
pulpit and a short gallery, all very plain but substantial. As near as 
can be determined it was built about 1745. 

Rev. Benjamin Vanderlinde, the next pastor, was a native of Bergen 
county, born at Pollifly in 1719, and was called to this church in connec- 
tion with Paramus on August 21st, 1748. This is the first record in the 
old Dutch Book. The Elders at this time were : Albert Van Dien, Steve 
Terhune, Yan Romaine, Barbent Van Hoorn, Hendrick Van Aele, Roe- 
lof Van Houten, The deacons were : Johannes Stek, Kleet Zabriskie, 
Albert Bogert, Simeon Vanwinkle, Cornelius Van Houten, and Steve 
Bogert. The Ponds Church belonged to the Classis of Hackensack 
until the year i800, to the Classis of Bergen until iS39, and is at this 
time, (1876), connected with the Classis of Passaic. The Rev. Peter 
Leydt was licensed and became pastor at the Ponds about 1788, and died 
in 1793, and the Rev. Peter Dewitt was called to this pastorate in 1798. 
The Hexangular Church had now been in use fifty years and the Consists 
ory decided to furnish a new roof, a new pulpit, and to substitute pew- 
for the chairs. All improvements that were made, added to the value of 
the property. Mr. Dewitt extended his labors to Wyckoff on the east 
and to Preakness on the south. 

The people of Wyckoff now built a new church. Judge Van Voorhees 
acting as treasurer and general manager. The work of building began 
in 1806, and the same Fall the pews were sold. Mr. Dewitt died in 1809, 
and was laid to rest under the old church. The Rev. Demarest was next 
installed as pastor on November 11th, 1811. There were no stoves in 
the church, but this did not deter people from going to the services. 
Mr. Demarest's ministry closed about i820. He always signed his name, 
John Demarest, V. D. M. (Minister of the Word of God.) The elders 
at this time were : Joseph Van Cleve, Conrad Sturr, Nicholas Romeyn, 



HISTOKY OF BERGEN COl'NTY 1 8'J 

and William Pulis. The deacons were : George Snyder, Simeon Van 
Winkle, Samuel Romeyn and John A. Van Voorhees. 

Upon coming to the Ponds, the people honored Mr. Demarest with 
a large deception, This was his last regular charge. His daughter, 
Mrs. Jacobus Blauvelt, of Paterson, has given some facts in regard to 
her father. He was born at New Bridge, N. J., in i763. He moved 
from Tappan where he owned the farm upon which Major Andre was 
executed and buried. Mrs. Blauvelt relates that she was at that time a 
young lady, and stood by when the body was exhumed by the British 
Consul Buchanan and Captain Park. She further says: Two cedar trees 
grew on his grave, fastening their roots into his coffin. The grave was 
protected by a stone wall. The trees entire were transported with the 
coffin to England and converted into snuff boxes. One box, says Mrs. 
Blauvelt, "was elegantly finished, being lined with satin and velvet, 
covered with red morocco, bound with gold, and sent to my father, bear- 
ing this beautiful inscription: "From his Royal Highness, the Duke of 
York, to mark his sense of the Rev. John Demarest's liberal attention 
upon the occasion of the removal of the remains of the late Major John 
Andre at Tappan, on the 10th of August, 1821." Each line was written 
in a different style of letters. We examined it and pronounced it a rare 
and costly present." 

At the close of his ministry, Mr. Demarest returned to his farm at 
Tappan. The seal of this church was bought by Simon Van Winkle, 
and cost Si. 75. The church was incorporated October 25, 1824, as the 
" First Reformed Dutch Church at Ponds." Prior to this, however, is 
the following record: "Ponds, May 10th, 1822. According to the grant 
of the Classis of Bergen, the members in full communion of the Church 
at Ponds, assembled for the purpose of having their congregation regu- 
larly organized. Petitions for every necessary aid and assistance were 
offered at the throne of grace. They then proceeded to the election of 
elders and deacons. The elders chosen were: Joseph Van Cleve and 
George Snyder, the deacons Benjamin Bartholf and Simeon Van Winkle. 
Whereas there are but few members, it is judged best to ordain two elders 
and two deacons at this present time, to serve as consistory. 

It is agreed that next spring one elder and one deacon shall be 
chosen in the room of George Snyder and Benjamin Bartholf, and if 
practicable add four to the present number. The line agreed upon ver- 
bally between the two congregations, by the consistory, is the following: 
Beginning at the house of Garret Post, from thence to James Acker- 
man's; from thence to Abraham Winter's; and from thence to Garret 
Garrison's. A sermon was preached by the minister named by the presi- 
dent of the Classis, and after the sermon the consistory chosen were 
ordained to their office." 

Rev. Zachariah H. Kuypers, licensed by the Classis of Hackensack, 
was called to this church, the call being dated February 24, 1825. The 
elders then were: Benjamin Bartholf, Samuel Romaine, Simeon Van 
Winkle and Jacob Garrison, Jr. The deacons: Samuel P. Demarest, 



190 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

Henry I. Spear, William H. Winters, David N. Romaine. One-third of 
Mr. Kuj-pers time was given to this congregation, preaching every third 
Sabbath, twice a day in summer and once in winter. 

The Hexangular Church which had then been in use about eighty 
3'ears, was considered unfit for use, and the entire structure was re- 
moved, and a new house erected on the same spot. The trustees at this 
time were: Martin Van Houten, William H. Winters, Peter C. Bogert 
and John S. Post, Jr. The builder was Cornelius Demarest and the 
principal mason, William Winters of Paramus. It was several years 
before the front was finished, when Mr. Nicholas D. Romaine and his 
cousin put on the white wall of cement. 

The work of building began in 1829 and the pews were offered for 
sale on the 17th of November. During this season the church service 
was held in the barn of Peter S. Demarest. Mrs. Maria Garrison, wife 
of Samuel P. Demarest, presented a hymn book, baptismal cup and table 
cloth to the new church. Black velvet bags attached to long poles were 
used for collections. It is said that in some churches a little bell was 
placed at the bottom of these bags to wake up the sleepers. Mr. Ku}-- 
pers ministry closed in 1841. On July 20th 1S42 the Consistory of the 
Church of Ponds met at the house of Mr. Albert Bartholf and prepared 
a call for William J. Thompson and upon his signifying his acceptance, 
the Classis convened at the Church on August 23, for the purpose of 
ordination and installation. One-half of Mr. Thompson's time was 
given to the Ponds and one-half to the Church of Wyckoff, which had 
united in the call. The pastoral relations were dissolved July 12, 1845, 
and thereafter these churches became independent, each calling a pastor 
of its own. The Wyckoff church called Rev. Abram G. Ryerson, whose 
successor was Rev. William B. Van Bcnschoten, and the next (1876), 
Samuel T. Earle. 

On November 13, 1845, Rev. Barnabas V. Collins was installed at 
the Ponds. The congregation provided a suitable home for the pastor 
with thirty acres of ground attached. This was the first time in their 
history that a parsonage had been provided. Among other resolutions 
adopted for the good of the church was this: "Resolved, that any per- 
son not paying salary shall pa}' two dollars for a funeral sermon, and 
fifty cents for a baptism." Mr. Collins remained until 1867 when he re- 
signed and was followed in 1869 by Rev. Alburtus Vandewater, whose 
pastorate extended over the short period of three years, when the church 
called Rev. Theodore F. Chambers the same year (1872), and in 1876 he 
received a call which he accepted. 

The Pompton Church was founded in 1815. The first Sabbath 
school at the Ponds was organized in 1883, with some -opposition. 
Pleasant Valley organized a Sabbath school in 1867, in the old tavern 
of Stephen Bartholf. Chrystal Lake organized a school in January 
187(), using the depot as a place of meeting. 




AAKON G. t'.AKKISON 



HISTOKV OF BEKGEN COUNTY 191 

KOD.MAN M. PKICE. 

Rodman M. Price, fornior (luvernor of New Jersey, was horn in 
Sussex county, N. J., November .^, ISIS, and was the son of l''rancis 
Price, who subsequent!}- remo\ed to New York city. 

Here, in the Hig-h School, and l.ater in Lawrenceville i N. J. i Aca- 
demy, Rodman M. prepared for college, but after a brief period spent in 
the class of 18,'i4, in Princeton, he was oblig-ed to give up his studies on 
account of ill health. After studying- law for a short term he became 
interested in politics, and in the interest of the Democratic party he 
addressed large assemblages when but eighteen years of age. He was 
sent as a deleg-ate to the National Democratic Convention at Baltimore in 
1840. After his marriage to the daughter of Captain Edward Trenchard, 
United States Navy, he applied to President Van Buren for the appoint- 
ment of purser in the navy. Mr. Price was first ordered to the ste.im 
frigate "Fulton," Captain Newton. After a year's service. Captain 
Newtcm and Mr. Price were ordered to the new steam frigate " Missouri," 
whicli, with her sister ship, the "Mississippi," were the largest in the 
world, carrj-ing at that time the heaviest guns, and considered the finest 
specimens of steam naval architecture. This was in 1842. In 184.^ the 
" Missouri" was ordered to take Caleb Cushing, minister to China, to 
Alexandria, and the night after her arrival in the harbor of (libraltar 
she was destroyed by fire. After Mr. Price's return he did special duty, 
disbursing- for the " Allegheny," the first iron steamship built by the 
government. He was next ordered to the slooi>of-war "Cyane," which 
eventually sailed for Monterey, where it arrived on July .^d, and on the 
7th of July, 1846. formal possession was taken of Upper CaliforniM, Mr. 
Price being one of those who manned the halliards that run up the tlag. 
which still floats over California. In 18,^0 he was elected member of the 
Thirty-second Congress. On Jimuary 17th, 18S4, he was inaugurated 
(Governor of the State of New Jersey for a term of three years, and after 
retiring from this office, he established the Weehawken Ferry, which he 
managed for a number of years. His last public work of im])ortatice was 
as representati\-e of the Peace Congress at Washington. 

.\.\K()N C. (;.\!<K-|SI)N. 

Among the old residents of Bergen county no life, perhaps, is more 
interesting in detail than that <if Aaron (1. (iarrison, whose Imme is in 
the Rama])o Valley. (Jarret (iarrison and Kli/..-ilieth Hop])er were the 
parents of five children, Mary Ann, Kliza, .\aron, Sally .-ind Peter of 
whom Mary Ann, Aaron and Sallv ;ire now living. 

Aaron (i., the snl)ject of this sketch ;nid the eld>'sl son, w:is born 
Se])tembi-r 21. ISl't. He became the chief hel]> of his fatlu-r. who w.-is :i 
farmer, and a man of sound judgment and independent thouglil. although 
of limited education. I^he son inherited his father's intellect, i-arly 
acquiring a ])ractical knowledgeof general business transactions, which 
was recognized by the connnunity. .\t twenty-oni- yi-ars of age he was 
elected town clerk of tlu' original townshi]i of j-'ranklin. serving the full 



192 HISTOKV OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

term of three years. Upon declining' a re-election to this office, he was 
immediately elected member of the town committee for the following 
three years. At the expiration of this term he was again elected town 
clerk, and has sin:e served a number of terms in this office. Prior to the 
creation of the office of School Superintendent, Mr. Garrison was made 
member of the school committee, and, as chairman, discharged the 
duties of that office for a period of three years. 

An advocate of the cause of education, he established a new schotd 
district, and contributed largely toward the building of two new school 
houses, one at Riverdale and one at Oakland. 

For more than forty years of his life he was justice of the peace, 
and has drawn up deeds, bonds, mortgages, wills, and all sorts of docu- 
ments, agreements, contracts, etc., for many people in both Passaic and 
Bergen counties. 

In the spring of 1S()S, Judge A. Garrison was elected County Collector 
of Bergen county, and during his incumbency (to 187.^), received and 
disbursed over $1,000,000. He was foreman of the Grand Jury several 
terms of court, and was judge of the Court of Common Pleas two terms, 
of five years each. In the spring of the present year ilS't')) he was 
again elected justice of the peace by both i>olitical ])arties, and has 
accepted, being now established in that office. 

In private life he has often been called upon to act as executor of 
estates. Being something of a musician, the Judge has been chorister 
of the Reformed Church of Ponds, has composed sacred music, and, in 
his younger days, taught "singing school."' Remarkably versatile, he 
can invoke the muses and indite his thoughts in rhyme, which he often 
does for friends on both sides of the Atlantic. 

Judge Garrison was one of the first directors of the New Jersey 
Western Railroad for five years, and contributed liberally towards its 
ccmstruction. In summing up his various avocations the Judge has 
apth" said: 

"At ten years old I drove a team. 

At twelve I grain did sow. 
For fifty years I fished the stream 
And walked behind the plough." 

DAVID CHU'ISTIK Bl'SII. 

The first train of cars on the Midland Railroad through the village 
of Oakland was run on Mav 1, 1>S70. This important event was due 
mainlv to the foresight and public spirit of David C. Bush, who was 
one of the leaders in a movement which has built up this place to a 
j)ros])erous village, which, with its stores and manufacturing industries, 
is ecpuil to any other place of its age and size in the county. 

David C. Bush is the grandson of Samuel Bush, who came to Mah- 
wali from Holland in colonial times. He was a blacksmith and manu- 
facturer of cowbells, in which industry he was an expert. His son. 
Peter S. Hush, was a ■soldier in the war of the Revolution. Peter S. 




n.wii) c. lusii 



194 HISTORY OF BEKCIEN COUNTY 

Bush and his wife Bridget Christie were the parents of Samuel, John, 
Mary, Magdalene, Elizabeth Ann, David C, Rachel and Peter. The 
father died eighty-four years of age, soon after the late war. David C. 
Bush was born on the old homestead at Mahwah in 1827. In 1848 he 
married Miss Anna Van Blarcom, and in 1852, he located at Oakland, 
where he has resided since that time. His business has been farming 
and following various callings and pursuits, looking to his own material 
interests and the growth of the village. As one of the sponsors for the 
success of the railroad he took stock in that company, and helped in 
part to build it. In 1869 he erected his present residence, and upon the 
completion of the railroad, used one room of his new house for a few 
months as a ticket office, and subsequently became agent for the com 
pany, where he served for seventeen years. He was postmaster of the 
village sixteen years; was on the Township Committee seven years; a 
Freeholder during the troublous times of the late war, and has held 
various other offices and positions of trust when necessity so required. 
In 1887 he built a store and did merchandizing until recently when he 
retired from active business. 

He was married to his present wife Jemima Van Houghten, daugh- 
ter of Martin Van Houghten, May 7th, 1867, and his son David C. Bush, 
Jr., and her son, W. H. Shuart, by a former marriage, now own and 
operate the store. 

J. E. MOWEKSON. 

J. E. Mowerson, of Wyckoff, is a son of John J. and Mary Ann 
(Pulis) Mowerson, of Bergen county. At an early age he learned the 
trade of carpenter, and later followed the business of trucking in New 
York for a period of three years. In 1878 he located in Wyckoff, 
embarking in the business of general merchandise, now dealing in all 
kinds of groceries, provisions and hardware, with marked success. Mr. 
Mowerson was born at Saddle River, December, 9th, 1846. In 1867 he 
married Miss Lettie C. Ackerman, of Westwood. They have had five 
children. Anna, now deceased, was the wife of John G. DeBaun; James 
A. (now deceased), Ida and Archie J., who assist in their father's 
store, and George. 

Mr. Mowerson is a Republican, and has been for many years post- 
master of Wyckoff. He is a member of the Reformed Church. 

PETEK S. PT'LIS. 

Mr. Pulis Ijccame an employee of the New York, Susquehanna & 
Western Railroad Company at Wyckoff, when a Imy, and although en- 
gaged in other l)usiness, still retains his place at the head of the office, 
where he has had charge since his twentieth year. In addition to the 
responsibilities devolving upon him as an employee, Mr. Pulis carries on 
an extensive ice trade, from which he realizes a handsome profit, while 
being the owner and ])roi)rietor of what is known as "Spring Lake 
Farm," on which poultry raising is the chief industry, bringing in 
;■■ njTous incomi:. 




J. K. M()\V)':i\'S()N 



19(> 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 



Mr Pulis was born Decembei 9, 1863, in Bergen County where he 
received a limited education in the common schools. His father Samuel 
Pulis, is a native of Bergen county, carrying on farming and also doing 
a good business in the grocery trade. 

Mr. Pulis was married in 1885 to Miss Jennie Demarest, daughter of 
John C. Demarest of Bergen county. They have two children : Charles 
S., and Ida. In politics Mr. Pulis is a Republican. He is a member ot 
the Junior Order, United American Mechanics. 

H. T. LAWKENCE. 

H T Lawrence is the s<:.n of Thomas Lawrence, formerly State 
Senator f^om Sussex county and an honored and highly respected 
citizen Mr. Lawrence was born at Sparta, a village of bus- 
sex countv, in i846. He is a well-known citizen of Wortendyke, where 
he has conducted a business in general merchandise covering a period of 
seventeen years. His industry and economical business methods have 
established him as a reliable business man. In P^^^^ics Mr Lawrence 
is independent, voting for the candidate who seems best fitted for the 
place, while he never seeks office himself. His time and energies have 

been devoted to his business, in which he has been successful. 

He has a delightful home, and is a man of means and influence m 

the county. 



CHAPTER XIX. 
HOHOKUS. 

THE OLD TOWNSHIP OF HOHOKUS — CIVIL LIST — ITS ENTERPRISES — 
ORGANIZATION — RAMSEY'S COUNTRY SEATS — MAHWAH — INDUS- 
TRIES — SCHOOLS — CHURCHES — BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 

The township of Hohokus presents alternately valleys and ridges, 
picturesque as to scenery and of great fertility. The town is well 
watered, rich in meadow lands, and is very beautiful. The abundance 
of water furnishes excellent power which is utiliiied along- the streams 
for manufacturing purposes, and the numerous grist and saw mills en- 
joy home patronage. 

The name "Hohokus" is an In<lian word signifying "Cleft in the 
rock," which name of itself is indicative of the abode of the Red Man at 
some former period. For successive generations much of the land in 
this township, has been held by its original owners and their descendants, 
other portions of it having been taken up by city purchasers who have 
erected elegant mansions of architectural beauty for their homes. In 
point of enterprise the town is fortunate. The Ramapo and Paterson — 
now the Erie railroad, passes through the township and has since its 
advent, assisted greatly in the development of the place. 

Among the early names in the township of Hohokus are those of 
Bogert, Ackerman, Hopper, Voorhis, Zabriskie, Rosencrantz, De Baun, 
Wannamaker, Christie, Conklin, Ramsey, Van Gelder, Garrison, May, 
(roetschius, Valentine, Vauderbeck, Quackenbush, Storms, and Powell. 
Of these families a full account is given in our biographical department. 

HOHOKUS. 

The township of Hohokus was taken from the township of Franklin 
as shall appear and since its formation, has been divided and subdivided 
until but a portion of its original area is comprised within its former 
boundary lines. Originally the township was made to include Upper 
and Lower Saddle River Borough, Allendale Borough and Orvil town- 
ship, all of which have since been taken off leaving simply- the villages 
of Ramsey and Mahwah, and their vicinities as a relic of the old town- 
ship. 

OKGANIZATION. 

The act organizing the old township of Hohokus reads as follows: 
"An act to set off from the township of Franklin, in the county of 
Bergen, a new township, to be called the township of Hohokus. 

"Be it enacted by the Senate and (xeneral Assembly of the State of 
New Jersey, That all that part of the township of Franklin, in the 
county of Bergen that lies north of the following line : beginning at the 
Saddle River Creek, at the U])])er end of Daniel Perry's mill-pond opposite 
the course of the road leading from the Saddle River road to Fairfield ; 



1">S HISTORY OF BEKOEN COUNTY 

thence a staiglit course to said road ; thence along the middle of said 
road until it intersects the road leading from new Prospect to Paramus; 
thence across said road, the course of the aforementioned road, direct to 
the Paterson and Ramapo Railroad ; thence along said railroad northerly 
to the Hohokus Brook ; thence along said Hohokus Brook westerly until 
it crosses the public road leading from Campgaw to Paterson, at the 
upper end of John Halsted's mill-pond ; thence westerly along the line, 
between the lands of Andrew G. Ackerman, Abram J. Hopper, Henry 
Sturr, Conrad Sturr, and Peter H. Pulis on the north and Lewis You- 
mans and others on the south, to the middle of the road leading from 
Wyckoff to Campgaw, at the southeasterly corner of lands of Peter H. 
Pulis ; thence westerly along the middle of said road to the division line 
between lands of Henry B. Winter and Daniel Thomas; thence a straight 
course to the middle of the Youpoh road, north of the house of David 
Bertholf, at the intersection of the mountain road leading from Wynockie; 
thence a northerly course through the Ramapo Mountain, parallel with 
the New York State line, to the line between the counties of Bergen and 
Passaic, shall be and the same is hereby set off into a separate township, 
to be called and known by the name of the township of Hohokus. in the 
county of Bergen." 

It was also enacted that the township of Hohokus should hold its 
tirst annual meeting on the day appointed by law for holding the annual 
township meetings in other townships in the county of Bergvrn, at the 
house of John W. Ramsev. at Mount Prospect, in said township of Ho- 
hokus. 

This act was approved February 5. 1849. 

Cn^IL LIST. 

The following is a list of the principal township officers since 184'): 
Freeholders, 1849. James S. Wanamaker; 1850-52. Elijah Conklin; 

1849, John G. Ackerman; 1850-51. Abraham Van Horn; 1852, Jacob I. 

De Baun; 1853-54, 1861-64. Peter P. Ramsey; 1853, John W. Ramsey; 

1854, Abraham Ackerman; 1856-58, 1868-70, Aaron Ackerman; 1856-58. 

John A. Winter; 1859-60, Andrew Van Buskirk, David P. Ramsey; 1861- 

63, Andrew N. Hopper; 1864-66, Thomas Henyon; 1866-67, Jacob H. 

Bamper; 1.S67-69, Garret H. Van Horn; 1870-71. 1873-75, Aaron H. 

Westervelt; 1872, Henry P. Wannamaker; 1876-78, Cornelius Folly; 

1879-81, John E. Hopper; 1882-83, W. H. Packer; 1884-85, Andrew H. 

Ackerman; 1886-89, Martin M. Henion; 1890-93, A. A. Ackerman; 1894- 

97, Daniel S. Wanamaker; 1898, Albert A. King. 

Township Clerks, 1849-51, Peter P. Ramsey; 1850-52, Peter Ward; 

1853, Richard H. Wanamaker; 1854-56, Isaac J. Storms; i855, Henry R. 

Wanamaker; 1857-59, Jacob P. Herring; 1860, Abram H. Ackerman; 

1861-6,3-75-77, John A. Garrison. Jr.; 1864-66, John W. Bogert; 1867-69- 

79-81, John Q. Voorhees; 1870, Andrew J. Winter; 1871-73. John G. 

Esler; 1874, Albert W. Conklin; 1878, Daniel S. Wanamaker; 1881-83. 

John y. Voorhees; 1884-89, Richard Wanamaker; 1890-92. John Acker- 
man; TsgS, W. J. Thurston; 1899, W. Van Horn. 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 19<) 

Assessors, 1849-51, Abram H. Lydecker; '5(t, Edward Salver; '52-34, 
John Young': '55, Abram A. \'an Riper; '5()-5S, John W. House; '59. 
Christian W. Christie; '00, Albert G. Lydecker; '61, George W. Whitley; 
'()2, Abram Garrison, '63-05; Isaac J. Storms; '66-68, John E. Hopper; 
'69, Albert A. Lydecker; '70, John W. Bogert; '71, David A. Pell; '72-73, 
Matthew D. White; '74-75, Stephen J. Terhune; '76-78, James Shuart; 
'79-81, William H. Murray; '84, Lewis H. May; '81, Albert W. Conklin* 
'86-94, W. H. Murray; '94-99, John Ackerman. 

Collectors, 1849-51, George Esler; '52-54, Richard Christie; '55-57, 
John W. Ramsey; '58-60, Elijah Conklin; '60-1)2-63, Andrew Winter; '64- 
()6, Garret H. Van Horn; '67-69, John H. Henion; '70, John O. Voorhees; 
"71-73, Levi Hopper; '74-76, John V. B. Henion; '77-79, George L Ryer- 
son; '80-81, W. E. Conklin; "83, W. H. Youmans; •,s4-8(); A. A. Acker- 
man; '87-99, Garret \'alentine. 

VILI.AClliS. 

The most important \-illage iu the township is Ramsey, so named 
from Peter J. Ramsey, the original owner of the land. It was sold after 
his decease, about the year 1854, at Commissioner's sale, to William J. 
Pulis, the tract disposed of embracing sixty acres. Mr. Pulis resold 
twent-two acres to John Y. Dater, of Hohokus township, with whose 
advent an era of enterprise dawned upon the locality. Mr. Dater at once 
began the erection of buildings, and opened a store of general merchan- 
dise, adding to this an extensive suppl}- of coal and building materials. 
The earliest structure was of brick. About the same time a hotel was 
erected by David W. \'alentine, which was burned, and the Fowier 
House since built vipon the site. Mr. August Schroder has owned this 
property since 1885. Mr. Dater next erected a building for the manu- 
facture of sleighs, and for a long period did a thriving business, finally 
leasing to M. B. Deyoe. William J. Pulis then built a store of which 
his son subsequently became the propretor, he dying in 1895. His son, 
J. W. Pulis, and his grandson, W. H. Pulis, the present postmaster, each 
have stores in this place. A station had been established on the com- 
pletion of the Ramapo and Paterson (now the Erie) Railroad, which 
was called Ramsey, and a post office was located here by the Govern- 
ment with Albert G. Lydecker as the first postmaster, and John Y. Dater 
as his successor. As the location became more favorably known, capital 
flowed into the embryo village, residences were erected, business in- 
creased and Ramsey took a place among the growing towns of the county. 

The Reformed Dutch C'hurch at Ramseys was erected in 1876, the 
ground on which it stands having been donated by Mrs. William 
Halstead. 

William Slack has been a prominent merchant in the place for about 
forty years. He first came to Ramsey's in 1849 and at that time there 
were but two or three houses in the place. He followed the cabinet 
business, and after a few years in Haverstraw, N. Y., pursuing his 
trade, he returned in 1S6(» and since that time has been the i)rincip:il 



200 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 



undertaker not only for Ramseys but for a large portion of this part of 
Bergen county. Mr. Slack still has the old hearse he himself made 
many years ago. In 1869 he built his present store, in which he carries 
a fuilline of hardware and furniture, also a full equipment of stock for 
caskets and funeral supplies. When Mr. Slack first came to Ramseys 
he was honored with the office of Constable, and one of the tirst duties 
that fell to his lot was the arrest of Ben. Moore, a notorious character, 
for stabbing a man in Fowlers Hotel, taking him to Hackensack Jail. 
Moore was a bully, and Slack was a slight young man not particularly 
skilled in ruffianism, but he succeeded finally in landing his man, though 
it was a herculean task. The yictim of the affray died nine days after 
the sad eyent and Moore got ten years in the penitentiary. 

In 1870, James Shuart, a man well known in Bergen county, came 
to Rimsey's where he built his house in 1871, and subsequently built a 
half dozen other houses. Mr. Shuart has been in the meat business 
during all this time and is one of the prominent butchers m the county- 
It has not been an unusual thing for him in former years to kill a 100 
sheep in a week and a half do.en steers. He bought and sold only the 
best and his trade was phenominal. On the 17th of Noyember 1888 he 
celebrated the election of Harrison oyer Cleyeland by treating the people 
of Ramseys and of the surrounding country to a "barbacue. For that 
occasSn he roasted an ox that weighed 750 pounds, provided three ba - 
reTof the Cream of Ale, and 400 loaves of bread, and fully loOO people 
partook of that banquet, the like of which had never been seen before. 
in this part of the State. 

The Dater Building is one of the attractive features of^Ramsey s. 
It was commenced by J. Y. Dater on Thanksgiving D^^-^ l^.. and com- 
pleted in May 1898. It is seventy-five by eighty-nine feet front, con 
Sins four stores, Lodge rooms for the J. O. A. M.; Mahwah Counc 1 
Nr45; Ramsey Council No. 26; Ramapo Valley Counci No. 1..9; 
Royal Arcanum and also offices for the Ramseys Journal. It is a sub- 
stantial brick building and does credit to the place. 

LODGE NO. 178, I. O. O. F. 

Two members of Amity Lodge of Spring Valley, N- J-, located iri 
Ramseys and the Lodge was finally instituted on March 19, 1874 Her 
geTcounty Lodge No'. 73 had charge of the work and the «, 
men constituted the Charter Members: D. S. Wanamaker John H. ler 
Hune W H. Murray, Thomas H. Howard, William Slack and John 
IZch The lodge was named Hohokus. The first meeting was held m 
thetilding afterwards occupied by Murray's Meat Market. The nine 
members of the Lodge struggled on and in the fourth fiscal year^ they 
experienced their darkest period. No new members -re added, bu^ 
four were dropped from the roll, and two withdrew. The Lodge then 
withdrew to the Dater Building. The first death occurred after the 
Lodge had been instituted fifteen years. 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 201 



XKWSI'APKKS. 

The people of North Berg-en. centre their financial interests natur- 
ally at Ramseys, and thus followed, as- a consequence, the " Ramseys 
Journal," to give the news of the week. This paper was established bv 
J. Y. Dater who issued Volume I No. 1. Thursday May 26, 1892. It 
was the successor of the Courier, a previous publication by Mr. Dater, 
but as a monthly it did not prove a financial success. Mr. Dater not de- 
spairing, however, established the weekly, taking care to equip it as it 
should be, as the official organ of Hohokus township, and then success 
came to him. There are probably no better equipped offices in Bergen 
county, not only for newspaper printing but for pamphlet work, than 
those in the Dater Building at Ramsey. There is also a bindery con- 
nected with the Journal. J. Y. Dater is proprietor. 

k.\msey's fire comp.\xy. 

Provision against fire was made in 18')5, by the organizatian of a 
company November 18th of that year, consisting of forty-six members, 
leading men of Ramsey's, The officers elected were J. Y. Dater, Presi- 
dent : A. C. Zabriskie,_Yi'-'e::Ptesident : W. H. Pulis, Treasurer; W. P. 
Halstead, Recording Secretary ; C. G. Sargent, Financial Secretary ; A. 
(i. Sherwood, Foreman : C. Rose, Engineer. .Tames Shuart is President 
of the Board of Trustees. 

The Department owns a four wheeled apparatus on which are 
mounted two forty-gallon copper cylinders which are charged with chem- 
icals; and it is claimed that one gallon of this acid is equal in effect to 
forty gallons of water. 

SCHOOL.S. 

In 184(t the people of this district erected a wooden structure sixteen 
by twenty feet in size which was used for a school building unril 1874. 
The building was then condemned by the County Superintendent, when 
a more commodious edifice was erected in its stead. This house was 
twenty-five by forty-five feet in dimentions one story high with belfry; 
attractive in appearance and well furnished. It cost S500U. The present 
building was erected in 1892 at a cost of Slti.dOO. James Shuart is pre- 
sident of the Board of Trustees, and W. S. Stowell is principal of the 
school. There are 257 scholars in attendance and five teachers employed. 

The True Reformed Church at Ramsey's was organized on the 24th 
of May, 1824, and was the outgrowth of a separation from the Reformed 
(Dutch ) Church. The causes of this departure from the parent church 
will not be deemed of essential importance in a history of this character, 
and are therefore not given. The following persons who left the orig- 
inal body placed themselves under the jurisdiction of the True Reformed 
Church of America: Rev. James D. Demarest, V.D.M., David Valen- 
tine and wife, David Christie and wife, Peter S. Bush and wife, Henry 
F. Forte and wife, John I. Post and wife. Peter Haring and wife. John 
J. Post and wife. John A. Ackerman and wife. William Kmmit and wife. 
David C. Christie and wife, Matthew Dougherty, Jacob Mitchel and 



202 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

wife. Widow Jemima Van Rhoder, Widow Margaret Wanamaker, Wid- 
ow Isabella Donaldson, David Meyers and wife, Jacob Valentine, Eliza- 
beth Christie, James P. Ramsey, Mrs. Abram Van Roda, Mrs. Charles 
Townsend, — making a total of thirty-six members. 

During- the year 1826 a church building was erected one mile from 
Ramsey's Station, on the road leading to Darlington. Here regular 
worship was maintained until 1868 (a period of forty-two years), when 
the inconvenience of the location caused a change to be suggested, 
(iround was partly purchased, and the remainder donated in the village 
of Ramsey's, and an edifice erected which, together with furniture, cost 
$5000. This was dedicated in the year of its completion. During the 
year 1875 the walls were frescoed, a new and effective heating apparatus 
added, and a new chandelier and an organ presented by Mrs. John Y. 
Dater. Several gentlemen in the congregation contributed liberally 
towards beautifying the edifice, which is now free of debt. It has a 
seating capacity of 250 persons. The Rev. James D. Demarest, the first 
pastor, labored alternately between this church and the one at Monsey 
until 1855 or 1856, and at a ripe old age retired from the ministry. Rev. 
John Y. De Baun next reeeived a call from the same churches, and con- 
tinued pastor during a period of four years and six months, when a 
larger field was opened to him at Hackensack. The church was then 
served by supply and by stated supph-, the Rev. Isaac J. De Baun offi- 
ciating until 1875. In April 1875 Rev. Samuel I. Vanderbeck received 
and accepted a call, continuing his ministrations here fourteen years, 
when the present pastor. Rev. Jacob N. Trompen, then a young gradu- 
ate from Princeton, accepted a call, taking charge in the Spring of 1891. 
The church is now in a very flourishing condition. The elders of the 
church are Abram A. Ackerman, David Tracy, Jacob Halstead. Dea- 
cons: John Y. Dater, John Terwilliger, Peter Winter. 

The Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, at Ramsey's, 
was organized under the auspices of Rev. E. De Yoe, on the 1st of Feb- 
ruary, 1867. Soon after a committee consisting of James N. Bogert, 
George Hosey, Heney R. Wanamaker, J. W. Valentine, Martin Litch- 
hult, David Carlough, and Charles A. May were appointed to secure a 
building lot and erect thereon a church edifice. In the fall of 1867 a lot 
was secured of David Valentine, and the plan of the church having been 
drawn by Henry Rehling, work was begun by excavating for the found- 
ation and basement. The contract for the erection and completion of 
the building was awarded in March, 1868, to Mr. Rehling, but, owing to 
delay in securing the lumber, operations were not begun until the fall of 
that year. 

The corner-stone was laid September 12, 18()8, with appropiate ser- 
vices, Rev. Henry A. Pohlman, D.D. of Albany having preached the 
sermon in the house of David Valentine. In 1869 services were held in 
the basement in the new church, and on the 25th of March, the following 
officers were elected. Martin Litchhult, James N. Bogert. David Car- 
lough and Thomas Ackerman, elders; Richard C. Straut, William S. 



HISTOKV OF lilCKC.HN COUNTY 20.^ 

\'alentinc, John A. Slraut, .ind C. Ouackciibush, Deacons. The church 
was dedicated September (>, 1871, Rev. E. lielfour of Easton, I'a., preach- 
in^i.;- the sermon. Kev. E. De Yoe, who was from the bei^inniny the 
pastor of this little flock, continued in that relation until February 1878. 
Kev. L. A. Burrell became pastor in October of that same year. He was 
succeeded shortly after that by Rev. J. W. I^ake. The present i)astor, 
the Rev. Carlton Bannister, succeeded the Rev. S. H. Weaver in 18')2. 
The church now has a membership of sixty-nine and a flourishing- Sab- 
bath school, under the superintendency of William Slack. The elders 
are George F. Hosey, W. H. Pulis, (ieorge Shuart, A. J. Bloomer. The 
deacons are Abram Pulis, James Hopper, Everet Pulis, William Ro- 
maine. j.vmks .sihi.\kt. 

In Bergen county are many of the descendants of soldiers of thi' 
War of the Revolution, an honor to which they mav well refer with 
].ride. Among these we iind James Shuart, of Ramseys, whose grand- 
father, Adolphus Shuart, fought in the war of Independence, while his 
maternal grandfather, John Sutherland, was in the war of 1<S12, and re- 
ceived a pension of twelve dollars per month up to the time of his death. 
The Shuarts are of German ancestry, but have made their home in Ber- 
gen county since coming to America. 

Our subject, a son of Henry A. Shuart, and grandson of Adolphus, 
was born in Hohokus township, August 19, 1844. After receiving a 
limited education in the common schools, he began business in the dr^- 
goods and grocery trade in Orange county. This proved successful, 
and in 1870 he came to Ramseys, where he opened a meat market. This 
also became a profitable business, and in i8*)6 he retired. 

Mr. Shuart was married at the age of seventeen years to Susan Jane 
Hunter, a daughter of David Hunter of Orange county. By this union 
there was one son, Franklin Shuart, who now lives in Ramseys. Mr. 
Shuart's first wife died in 1S()8, and he married in 1872, Miss Eleanor 
N. Litchult of Brooklyn, N. Y. They have had four children. Eliza- 
beth, who married Albert G. May, of Ramseys; Eva R., who married S. 
G. Conklin, of Newburg, N. Y., and died at the age of twenty and one- 
half years; Harry now in I'eddie Institute, ])reparing for the studv ol 
law; and Edna at home. 

Mr. Shuart is a Free Mason and also a prominent Odd l"'ellow. He 
served three years as a member and president of the Board of Education, 
and was recently elected to serve three years more in the same cajiacity. 
He has also served as assessor and road commissioner of Hohokus lown- 
sh.ip for three years. In politics he is a Democrat. ( He was christi'ued 
James K. Polkj. He and family attend the F/utheran Church. 

J.VMKS W. PUT. IS. 

About the year 18.=;4 Mr. William J. Pulis bought a tract of sixty 
acres of land, re-selling twenty-two acres to John Y. Daters who soon 
after built and opened a store of general merchandise. Subsecpientl v 
Mr. Pulis built another store which he conducted for some years, and to 
which his son, James W. succeeded in 1874. lie still continues in the 
business where he has been for more than thirty years. 




JAMES SHUAKT 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 205 

James W. was educated in the common schools and in Rutgers Col- 
lege, from which he was graduated in the class of 1862 having com- 
pleted the classical course. 

He is a Republican and was postmaster of Ramseys for a period of 
more than thirty years. Mr. Pulis' first wife died in early life, leaving 
him one son, William H., who married in i88(>, when the business was 
divided, William H. opening a grocery. He is also the present post- 
master. 

James W., married in 1870, Miss Onderdonk of New York state. 
Thev have two sons, James Everet, attending a business college, and 
Arthur G., attending Hashrouck Institute. James W. still conducts the 
Emporium. Mr. Pulis' father, William J. Pulis. died in 1895 at the 
age of ninety-three years. 

W. H. Pulis, son of James W., was l)orn in Ramseys December 7, 
1S(>4. After leaving the public school he was employed in his father's 
store until 1886, when he went into business for himself, building up a 
good trade. He is engaged in general merchandise, and is postmaster 
of the village. Mr. Pulis was married in 1886 to Miss Jennie Acker- 
man, daughter of Abram Ackerman. They have two children. Luella 
and James Wilbur. In politics Mr. Pulis is a Republican. He belongs 
to the Hohokus Lodge of Odd Fellows. With his family he attends the 
Lutheran Church. 

WII.I.IA.M SLACK. 

Seth Slack, a native of Canada removed to New York going finally 
to Ulster county, N. Y., and from there to Stonington, Conn., where he 
died and where his son, William, was born August 15, 1824. In the 
family were Mary .\nn, who married a Mr. Valentine, oi Bergen county; 
William, Jane, who lives in New York state; Thomas, deceased; and 
Sarah, wife of Charles Corey, of the State of New York. 

In his boyhood days Mr. Slack was apprenticed to the trade of cab- 
inet making and upholstering. This was to continue until he reached 
the age of twenty-one, which would be in seven years, four months and 
eighteen days. His master died, however, at the end of four years. 

He afterwards lived in Stonington for a short time working at his 
trade. From there he shipped aboard a whaling vessel, the voyage con- 
tinuing four years. Upon returning he went to Haxerstraw where he 
spent seven years, working at his trade. 

He has been a resident of Ramseys for many years and is success- 
fullv carrying on a general hardware- trade, in addition to a complete 
undertaking establishment, which is fully e<|uip])ed with all modern 
ap])liances. 

Mr. Slack is a Democrat in politics, and has been justice of the peace 
for eighteen years. He is a member of the Lutheran Church, in which 
he is an active worker, having been sui)erinten(Ient of the Sunday scIkkiI 
for manv vcars. 



206 HISTOKY OK BERGEN COUNTY 

He was married in 1845 to Miss Matilda Valentine. They had 
three children, all of whom died in early life. His wife died in 1894. 

MW. GKOKOE WELCH. 

Mr. George Welch, a florist living near Ramseys, came here in 1844 
and purchased a small tract of land, which he improved by the erection 
of buildings and otherwise equip]>ingfor the purpose of growing plants 
and flowers for market. In his enterprise he has succeeded admirably, 
finding a liberal patronage in New York and Paterson. Mr. Welch 
served an apprenticeship of seven years as gardener in England, coming 
to America in 1868, where he has since followed his trade. 

He was born in Reading, Berkshire, England, June 2'), 1843. In 
1 870 he married Miss Louisa Adams, a daughter of Mr. Richard Adams, 
a farmer of Stafford, England, of which place Mrs. Welch is a native. 

They have two children, daughters. 

In politics Mr. Welch is inde])endent. • 

MAHWAH. 

The hamlet of Mahwah is the last station in Bergen county on the 
Erie Railroad. Aside from the old church, a hotel and "Owena," 
there is nothing of importance in the place. The land was originally 
owned by John Winter. Andrew J. Winter now owns the only store in 
the place. Andrew Hagerman built the hotel a number of years ago. 
It was bought by John Petry in 1891, who owns and runs it now. The 
" Owena " was built by Colonel Ezra Miller in iS76 at a very great cost. 
It is an elegant mansion situated on a beautiful and commanding site. 
The property is now owned by his son, Ezra W. Miller, who preserves the 
grounds, the fish ponds and other attractions in keeping with the tastes 
of its original owner. 

Andrew H. Hagerman. son of Andrew, has been station agent for 
twenty-seven years, and postmaster most of that time. 

THE RAMAPO KEFORMEl) DUTCH CHURCH. 

The Ramapo Reformed Dutch Church was doubtless established as 
early as the begining of the present century, or possibly before, and 
has been the place of worship of successive generations, having formerly 
been familiarly known as the Island Church. The old cemetery adjoin- 
ing the church is of equal antiquity, and is the ])lace of sepulture of 
many of the old families in the congregation. A. A. King, the present 
pastor, succeeded Rev. W. W. Letson in 1892. The church has a mem- 
bership of 125. Its eJder are David Hopper, Henry Van Gilder, R. V. 
Valentine. M. M. Henion, A. J. Winter and R. Wannaker. 

The Havemeyer estate cDnsisting of .'^SOO acres of land is in this 
township. In 1881 the estate of Jacob W. DeCostra, consisting of 500 
acres of land was purchased by F. O. Havemeyer, and the erecticm of a 
large barn and other extensive buildings were made. Subsequently 
other lands were purchased until all this portion of the township with 
the manv homesteads represented, were swallowed uj) in the one estate. 



HISTOKY OK BEK(.;EN COUNTY 



207 



Fdlldwing- this came im])r<>vonients of roads, the buildiiiir of other 
stables, chicken _yar(ls, calf sheds, bull barns, piggeries, for the hous- 
ing of which and in the taking care of stock a large compan}- of men is 
constantly emploTed. Ramapo River runs back of the place but water 
is supplied from large reservoirs especially constructed. 

THE DAKLINC, KAH^M. 

The Darling Farm is an addition to this township in a wav. He- 
sides being a private affair the people take an interest in it also; for 
the love they have for the man. For they remember him not onlv as 
a broad minded and charitable gentleman, but one who did not com.' 
among them, wholelv for his selfish interest and only for luxurious gain. 
Consequently, ^Ir. Darling's extensive establishment the largest struct- 
ures he once erected his piggeries and bull-pens, his full blooded stock 
of fine brood-mares, his imported cattle and rare chickens etc., etc., 
have broujjfht credit to him. 




DARLINGTON' HCHOOI, 

The hamlet of Darlington, the creation of Mr. A. B. Darling, the 
proprietor of the Fifth Avenue Hotel, N. Y., is the country-seat of a 
very fine estate. Mr. Darling came to this part of the county probablv 
about the time of the Centennial Year and having made his selection be- 
gan impr(jving the place. The spirit of progress siezed at once upon 
the people. The Hopkins & Dickinson bronze works, where some 2(tO 
hands were employed, before its removal to Newark, being one of the 
results. 

JtDCE JOHN yiACKKNBUSH. 

The tirst ancestor of the Ouackenbush family in this vicinitv was 
Rynier, who descended the Hudson River in 17(tO from Albany, where 
the original family had been settled since 1626, and settled near Nyack. 
He had a family of nine children, one of whom was Abraham, the great- 
grandfather of the judge. His grandfather, John yuackenbush, was a 
native of Tappan, New York. His father was John, also, and married 
Mary Ann Van Sise, a relative of the Demarest family, and resided at 
Oakland, N. J., where our subject was born ()ctoi)er 1, 1S27. 




jrl)(;F. JOHX OfACKKNBl'SH 



HISTOKY OK KKK(;EN COUNTY 200 

The Judge is of pure Holland ancestry, speaking- the original 
Holland dialect fluently, and taking great interest in the history of the 
Holland people. He was educated in the common schools and after- 
ward received an academic training, taking his law course in the 
University of New York, from which he was graduated in 1S56. In 
1857, when thirty years of age, he was elected Police Justice in New 
York city and was President of the Board of Police Justices for six 
years, being the youngest member of the Board. Upon his retirement 
from this position, he practiced law in New York, in the firm of Ouack- 
enbush, Dusenbury & Briggs. In 1865 he was appointed to a position 
in the Custom House and later was made Deputy Collector of Customs, 
and has held that position ever since; he has charge of the Second 
Division in which assessments of custom duties are levied. 

Judge Ouackenbush was married in 1846 to Miss Harriet A. 
Christopher, daughter of Joseph Christopher, of Allendale, N. J. The 
Judge is a Republican, but does not take an active part in politics. He 
is a Free Mason and belongs to the Holland Society of New York, 
being Vice President of the organization. He attends the Reformed 
Church and contributes liberally to the support of charitable enterprises. 

COLONKL KZKA MII.LKK. 

Among those who were interested in the railroads of our country 
when first put in operation, was Colonel Ezra Miller, who became widely 
known as the inventor of what is known as the "Miller Platform 
Coupler and Buffer." 

He was born May 12, 1812, in Bergen county, opposite Fort Wash- 
ington, his parents removing to New York city a few years later, even- 
tually becoming residents of Flushing, L. I. Here Mr. Miller spent his 
boyhood days, receiving a thorough English education. In September 
1833, he enlisted in a company of horse artillery belonging to the Second 
Regiment, First Brigade, New York Militia, in which he was promoted 
to the Colonency in 1842. In 1848, Colonel Miller removed with his fam- 
ily to Rock county, Wisconsin, and engaged in surveying United States 
and state lands. Having become identified with the interests of the 
state, he was appointed in 1851, by (iovcrnor Dewey, to the Colonelcy of 
the Eighth Wisconsin Regiment, an office he continued to hold during 
his residence in the state. The following year he was elected to the 
State Senate, serving one term, but declining a second nomination. About 
this time, his attention being called to defects in the matter of car couj)- 
ling, which was causing accidents resulting in great loss of life, he 
began investigations looking toward a remedy. His great " Platform 
Coupler and Buffer" was the result of his perseverance. At the time 
of his death, Colonel Miller was representing Bergen county as senator. 

Colonel Miller was married in May, 1841, to Miss Amanda, daugh- 
ter of Captain Seth Miller, of New York. They had five children, 
Amanda J., wife of Marshall L. Hinman, of Dunkirk, N. Y.; Ezra W., 



210 HISTOKY OK BEKGEX COUNTY 

(Hir subject; Harriet M., wife of John H. Van Kirk, of New York; 
Jordan G., and Dr. Frank P. 

Ezra W. Miller was born May 2(>, 1S4S, at Fort Hamilton, N. Y. 
His early life was spent in Wisconsin, where his classical studies were 
prosecuted at Racine Colleufe, from which institution he was graduated 
in the class of 18()5. 

Returning- to the East, he was for some time engaged in the whole- 
sale drug trade, subsequently becoming associated with his father in 
New York, in connection with the business of his inventions. In 1874, 
he removed with his father to Mahwah, N. J., where they erected a 
mansion known as the " Owena," a fine establishment which Mr. Miller 
is at present conducting as a hotel with good success. This is a beau- 
tiful place, commanding a line view of the surrounding country. 

He was married in 1870 to Caroline I. Rollins, daughter of True W. 
Rollins, of Brooklyn, N. Y. They have one daughter, Adele R. In 
politics Mr. Miller is a Democrat. He is a member of the Episcopal 
Church, and of the Royal Arcanum. 

Mr. Miller's mother died in 1S81, and his father in 1885. 

JOHN PKTKV. 

John Petrv, of Mahwah, is of French ancestry, a son of George 
Petry, who was a harness maker by trade, and a native of Canada. 

The family lived near Paterson, N. J., where John was born August 
24, 1824. The first experience of young Petry as a wage earner was in 
Paterson, when he was employed for a number of years in the various 
cott(m mills. In 1853 he went to California, taking the route by the 
Isthmus of Panama. After an absence of two years he returned, and sub- 
sequently engaged in the retail liquor trade for a number of years in 
New York city. Having accumulated a considerable fortune, he pur- 
chased a tract of near land Mahwah in 1864, which he improved at a great 
expense. Afterward, however, meeting with financial loss, he sold this 
farm to Mr. Havemeyer. Mr. Petry then removed to the village of 
Mahwah, where he opened a hotel, which has proved a profitable busi- 
ness, and where he continues to reside. 

Mr. Petry has been twice married, first to Miss Jemima Gerll. By 
this marriage were two children, Jesse and John. After the death of 
his first wife he married Miss Ruth De Fau. Four children were born 
of this union, Harry, Herbert, Milred and Howard. 

Mr. Petry is a Democrat, and held the office of postmaster under 
Cleveland's last administration. He is a member of the Order of F"ree 
Masons. 



CHAPTER XX. 
ORVIL TOWNSHIP. 

ITS OKOAXIZATION — X'lI.LAGES — HISTORIC A I. RESIDENCES — MANUFACTUR- 
ING INTERESTS — CHURCHES — BIOGRAPHY. 

This township was incorpor.ited in 1885, and was formed out of the 
southerly part of Hohokus and the westerly part of Washington. In 
1894, owing to troubles growing out of the school law, three boroughs, 
namely. Saddle Riyer, Upper Saddle Riyer and Allendale, were taken 
off the township. The borough of Saddle Riyer was taken off the 
eastern part of Orvil; Upper Saddle Riyer was formed out of part of 
Orvil and part of Washington, and Allendale borough comprised the 
northwest part of Oryil, part of Hohokus and part of Franklin town- 
ship. The township was named in honor of Oryille Victor, whose 
sketch is giyen in this chapter of the work. 

The prime moyers in the formation of the township of CJrvil were 
Martin M. Smith, Abram H. Ackerman and John G. Esler. The first 
officers of the township were: Township Committee— Dr. B. Oblenis, 
Elijah Rosencrantz, Nathaniel Orr. Collector — Albert De Baun. As- 
sessor — Abram H. Ackerman. Freeholder -Dr. B. Oblenis. Town 
Clerk— S. Nelson Woodruff. 

The officers for i899 are: Township Committee — A. S. D. Dcmarest, 
John W. (Juackenbush, Haryey Springstead. Freeholder —Abram H. 
Ackerman. Collector — John Magee. Assessor — J. B. VerNooy. Town- 
ship Clerk — I. B. Keiser. 

yil.I.AGKS. 

There are two yillages in Orvil Township. Hohokus, former] v known 
by the name of Hoppertown is on the Erie railroad, with "Uudercliff" 
as one of its stations, and is situated in the extreme part of the township. 
The land covering the site of this yillage was taken up by Abram Hopper 
bmg before the war of the Revolution. This influential family lived 
here many years, and from them the place aptly received it name Ho])- 
pertown. 

The American Pegamoid Company's works, also the Brookdale 
Bleachcry, are located here, besides, there are stores, a hotel a school and 
a post office. 

The old Mansi(m House still occupied as a hotel, is one of the indeli- 
ble landmarks. Both the Bleachery and the Pegamoid w<irks of very 
recent origin, (i. J. B. Keiser has been postmaster in the village since 
iS76, and virtually since i8()4. The two store are kei)t Ijy .1. E. .Miller 
and E. W. Learj- respectively. 

The old school house in this district, was a rude affair but nothing 
in particular is known at this late day, concerning its erection. The 
Ilnhokus District embraced territory both in Hohokus and l-'rankliii 



212 HisTOKY OF bekgp;n county 

Township. In 1856 another house was erected by subscription, and this 
in turn gave place to a better one erected in the village on the avenue 
leading to the Paramus Church. Until i87() the school was maintained 
by a tuition fee of one dollar per quarter, but it is now entirely free. 
/" In the village of Hohokus are three very old houses, dating back to 
colonial times. They were built by the Hoppers and are known as the 
old Stone Building South of the Brook ; the old Stone House and the 
Mansion House. The first narhed is probably the' oldest. A cannon 
ball was shot into it during the war of the Revolution, and still remains 
as a relic of that struggle for our independence.* On June i3, 1803, 
this property was sold by John A. Hopper to William Bell, who sold it 
to Andrew J. Zabriskie, in 1827. Mr. Zabriskie owned a cotton mill and 
a saw mill in the town at that time. About 1857 John J. Zabriskie, son 
of Andrew, came into possession of the property, and the whole Hopper 
estate is now in the possession of McCaiferty & Buckley, including, of 
course, the old Mansion House. This is the famous old tavern on the 
old stage route from Albany to New York, when the stage coach was 
the chief means of travel. 

The old Ouackenbush estate, subsequently known as the John A. 
Bogert Hotel, was also used for a tavern in Hohokus before the railroad 
diverted travel. This tavern was on the road about half way from 
Hohokus to Paramus. 

Waldwick, another enterprising little town of the township, where 
the Post silk mill is located, is on the Erie railroad. Waldwick is a 
Saxon word, which means beautiful grove, and the old village was well 
named. Besides the manufacturing interests, there are several stores, 
two hotels, a church and a fine school. The village proper is of recent 
origin. Henry L. Hopper was the first postmaster, and took the ofBce 
in i890. George Oughten, the present postmaster, started the first 
grocery store in the village in 1881. His commission as postmaster 
dates back to 1892. The next store was opened by George Tonkin. F. 
F. Wagner, proprietor of the Waldwick Hotel, began business in i84i. 
The Orvil House was built in 1894. The school house also built in 
1 894, is a well constructed, commodious structure with departments for 
three teachers. William McKenzie is the principal at the present time. 

A portion of the agitation that led to the good roads, for which Ber- 
gen county is now noted, began in Orvil Township. The leaders in the 
movement were John G. Esler, Alfred P. Smith, Martin M. Smith, and 
AbramW. Ackerman of Saddle River, and Garret H. Bamper of Hohokus. 
The first appropriation for Macadam was ma'de in March 1891 and with 
a portion of this money the first Macadam on the Paterson road was put 
down in the Fall of that year. Ridgewood Township and Saddle River 
Township quickly followed the example set by Orvil. 

In June 1882 Alfred P. Smith, a lame and invalid colored man 
started at his home in Saddle River, " The Landscape," which is prob- 
ablv the smallest paper in the Unite<l States. It is <>x8 inches and has 



HISTOKV (Jl- BKKl'.KN COUNTY 213 

been published every month since the initial issue. It is a sheet that 
reflects the ability of its editor in ever\- line, and by many is retained as 
and encyclopaedia of events in Saddle River borough, both past and 
present. The influence of "The Lan<lsca])e" in securing- g-ood roads was 
an important factor in IS'U. 

HISTOKICAL KESIDKNCKS. 

Among places of historic interest, that of the beautiful Theodosia 
Provost, afterwards the wife of Colonel Aaron Burr, is worthy of n<ite. 
It was once, in ante-Revolutionary days, the residence of a wealthy 
English family, and, during the war, at different times, the stopping 
place or headquarters of Washington. At that time it was called the 
"Little Hermitage," and many of Mrs. Provost's letters to Burr were 
dated here. It was while residing here that she became acquainted 
with the Colonel, who was then stationed at Ramapo. 

Only a part of the original building, which was a substantial, tirst- 
class country house, now remains. It is not known by whom, or when, 
the original buildings were erected. The principal structure has on one 
of the stones in the front of the house. Masonic emblems inscribed, and 
there was one room in the building that could be entered only by a trap 
door. These facts led to the conjecture that the house was erected at 
an early date by the Masonic fraternity. Elijah Rosencranz, Jr., father 
of William Rosencranz, the present owner, had a door cut into this room. 

Mrs. Provost was a sister of De Wisum, a French nobleman, who 
owned the property at the time of the war of the Revolution. In 1812 
it was rebuilt by William Ranlett, Esq., for Dr. Elijah Rosencranz, and 
has been in the possession of that family ever since. 

The design of the house is of the old English style, and is finished 
inside and out in the most substantial manner. The walls are con- 
structed of hammer dressed brownstone from quarries in the vicinity. 
The timber is of oak and chestnut and the roof of cedar. The original 
house had a piazza on the western side. Mr. William Rosencranz is of 
the opinion that Burr was married in the dining room of this house, 
The general belief is that the marriage took place in the Paramus 
church, but there is no record in the church books to that effect. 

TiiK nAMPi<;w iionsic. 
The Hamper House was a fjiinous tavern in ante Revolutionary 
times. It is not knwon by whom nor at what time this building was 
erected. The house was built for a tavern, and did duty in that capa- 
city, from timeout of mind, until the railroad was built. It was known 
formerly as the "Old hi Rue" tavern, and came into the i)i)ssesion of 
Captain Damper, probably about the time of the war of the Revolution. 
His son, G. H. Bamper, the last of a long line of proprietors, who en- 
tertained stage drivers with their passengers, on the way from Albany 
to New York, owned four, four horse stage coaches. He died soon after 
the war of the Rebellion, aged eighty six year. The j>roperty is now 
owned by the widow of G. H. Bamper, Jr. 



214 HISTOKV OF BEKGEN COITNTV 

The beautiful, picturesque residence and grounds, now the property 
of John B. Miller, but formerly owned by Joseph Jefferson, the famous 
actor, are also in Orvil township. The grounds are kept under the 
highest state of improvement and with the antique buildings the stately 
trees of shade, the fish ponds and other attractions, the place never 
ceases to be an object of general interest. 

MANUF.\CTUKING INTERESTS. 

On the Hohokus Brook are located the paper mill of White & Co.; 
the Brookdale Bleachery, formerly Rosencrantz Cotton Mills ; the Saw 
Mills of M. D. White ; the Paper Mill of C. S. White, and the Silk Mills 
of John A. Post. C. A. and J. B. Wortendyke also owned a cotton mill 
on this brook, for the manufacture of warp and 3'arn. 

John Rosencrantz, the founder of these cotton mills, came to Hohokus 
in 1787. In 1812 his brother Dr. Elijah Rosencrantz came. Klijah 
Rosencrantz was both a preacher and a physician, and became a partner 
with his brother in the mill interests, which they carried on for many 
years together. In 1853 John Rosencrantz, Jr., became sole owner. The 
mills were run for the manufacture of cotton warps, the product being 
sold in Philadelphia. The brothers employed as many as forty and fifty 
hands at times, and the business was continued up to recent times when 
all was sold to 

THE BKOOKDALE BLEACHEKV. 

This business was inaugurated in 18"J8. It is a stock company 
organized for the bleaching of goods. 

E. White, president; Thomas A. Deery, vice-])resident ; J. L. "\'an 
Sant, secretary ; Isaac T. Johnson, treasurer. 

On the site now owned by C. S. White, John White, his father, 
established the original mill in 18,^7. He came here from Milburn, New 
York, where he had been conducting a paper mill. He continued the 
busness here until his death in 1848. After that his widow kept the mill 
in operation until 1876, when she died and her son, C. S. White took 
charge, and for some time manufactured paper twine, but recently manu- 
factures toilet paper. He employs a number of men continously. 

THE WAI^DWICK SAW MILL. 

The Wakhvick saw mill was built in 1850 for a paper mill and during 
the war, from fifteen to twenty barrels of paper twine was made, daily. 
About twenty years ago it was burned, and was rebuilt by Matthew D. 
White, for a saw mill, having been used for that purpose since that time, 
sawing and shipping hard wood. Mr. White keeps a force of sixteen 
men and four teams employed, and furnishes lumber to the New York 
and Paterson markets, principally. 

THE PO.ST SILK MILL COMPANV. 

The Post Silk Mill Company is located at Waldwick, and was estab- 
lished in 18'n, by John A. Post, where he engaged in silk throwing, 
exclusively, doing a strictly commission business. H» began with but 
twelve hands but increased until he had a force of eighty men employed, 
and on February 1, 18'(9, the concern was incorporated, wifh John A. 



HrSTOKV OK BEKGEN COUNTY 215 

Post, president; F. C. Streckfuss, treasurer and secretary. Thev nnw 
employ about one hundred men. preparing thread from the raw silk, for 
the loom. 

THE AJIEKICAN PECAMOID COMPANY, 

The American Pegamoid Company \vas incorporated December 17. 
1897, with the capital stock of Hve million dollars. The incorporators 
and those interested are John R. Bartlet and many others of New York 
and Boston, it being a foreign company though the works are at Under- 
cliflF. The certificate of incorporation says: that the company is organ- 
ized to import, deal in, and manufacture paper materials and paper sub- 
stitutes of all kinds of raw substances, pulps preparatimis and all articles 
to be made from paper or paper substitutes. 

NEW PKOSPICCT Jl. i;. ClIUKCH. 

The New Prospect M. E. Church, now better known as the Wald- 
wick M. E. Church, was the first society of that denomination in Bergen 
County. No records remain of its first organization, nor any earlier 
than 1797; but the tenor of those existing seems to imply that the society 
had been in existence for some time. 

These quaint old records are interesting, showing the conti'ast 
between those days and the present. Accounts were kept in "pounds, 
shillings and pence; " the building was illuminated at night, first by 
tallow candles, then by oil, then by "camphene," and not till compara- 
tively recent times by "kerosene." The curious archaic spelling, the 
signatures of men of note in their day as pastors, presiding elders and 
as private members, make the faded lines and age-yellowed pages 
interesting. 

Rev. J. Fountain was pastor in 1797; Barnabas Mathias associate 
pastor. "The circuit" to which this appointment was attached 
extended then from Haverstraw, Rockland County, N. Y., to Belville, 
N. J. 

Revs. Manning Force, J. Mallinson and George Banghart, all nun 
of mark in their day, were among its lirst pastors. In fact the roll of 
New Prospect's ministers in charge includes none but honored names. 
Those still living are Rev. W. A. Dickinson, Rev. J. E. Switzer, Rev. 
J. R. Daniels. Rev. H. D. Opdyke, Rev. E. Clement, Kev. E. V. King, 
Rev. J. E. Gilbert, Rev. J. Tyndall, Rev. J. A. Piper and Rev. A. J. 
Conklin, now serving his second term as pastor liere. 

A church building was first erected near where the Erie Railroad 
now runs, within the bounds of Waldwick. This growing too small for 
their needs was replaced by another, a neat frame structure near the 
l)resent building, and now altered into an<l used as a dwelling ht)use. 

The present edifice, a handsome white frame building, was erected 
during the pastorate of Rev. J. E. Switzer ( i8f>5-18(>7) and is a taste- 
fully furnished and well planned church, with belfry and bell. 

By the untiring diligence of the Ladies' Aid Society, from 1S91 lo 
1894, a convenient and pleasant new parsonage and a large hall fur 



216 • HISTOKV OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

Sunday School, business and social uses were erected upon lots adjoining' 
the church. 

Many are the chang-es that have taken place in this hundred years. 
Many are the good men and good women, noble and true, who have gone 
to their reward from this church. They are no longer with us, but are not 
forgotten. The names of Whitman Phillips, Abraham Ackerman and 
wife, Aaron Ackerman and wife, John A. Storms, Peter U. Bush, Stephen 
Hammond and many others will long be remembered in the annals of 
this church. 

From this old mother church of Bergen Methodism have gone out 
other societies, who have built beautiful churches in Allendale, Camp- 
gaw, Wortendyke, Little Zion. Sloatsburg and Suffern — the last two in 
Rockland County-, N. Y. 

The trustees are as follows: Matthew D. White, George Storms, E. 
D. Lear3% D. Van Blarcom, Andrew Storms, Abram Storms, G. Winters, 
J. Terwilliger and G. Simmons. 

The Catholic Church in Hohokus is a branch of the Lady Mount of 
Carmel, Ridgewood, and is under the pastorate of Father E. A. Kelly. 
Ground for this building was given by Jacob Zabriskie in 1864. The 
society was organized and the building erected under the pastorate of 
leather McNulty. 

ABKAH.XM H. .\.CKKK:\1AN. 

During the reign of King George IH, the ancestor of the Acker- 
man family of Orvil township, found a home in this part of Bergen 
county, where several generations of his descendants have continued 
to reside. 

In the year 1763, Johana Arie Ackerman came to New Jersey and 
in 1773 began purchasing land, subsequently continuing these transac- 
tions until large portions of this part of the old township of Franklin, 
now Orvil, came into his possession. His son Abraham I. Ackerman 
was born October 10, 1766. Abraham I. married Sarah Cooper who was 
born November 5, 1766. They were married May 12, 1784. Their son 
Henry A., was born November 28, 1787, and his wife, Elizabeth Hopper 
was born May 28, 1799. Henry and his wife were married January 16, 
1819. He died May 18, 1879. She died December 29, 1881. Their 
children were Abraham H., the subject of this sketch, who was 
born May 22, 1820, and Nicholas H., born September 17, 1837. died, 
October 23, 1892. Abraham resided on the old homestead until his death 
which occurred December 8, 1891. He married Mary Van Riper, 
daughter of Harmon Van Riper, November 1, 1838. At the time of this 
marriage his father, Henry A., built a house on the farm on the Pater- 
son road and with his wife and younger son, Nicholas H., removed 
there, leaving Abraham H., to care for his grandfather and grandmother, 
which he did for five years, his grandfather dying November 22, 1843. 

Abraham H. Ackerman began life as a farmer. He received his early 
education in the school at the Paramus Church, which was at that time 




AKKAHAM II. ACKKIOIAN 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 217 

a small structure, furnished with Ihul;- wdnden l)enches fur seating pur- 
poses. School opened at nine and closed at four o'clock. The teachers 
were exacting, and made full use of the rod as a means of discipline. 
Mr. Ackernian received a very good common school education, however, 
and began farming for himself in the spring of ls,^'), on this farm of 
sixty acres. He had no money to start with, but he and his wife worked 
faithfully for a few years, and accumulated enough means to purchase 
more land. In 1SS5 he bought thirty acres from Mr. Andrew Zabriskie, 
subsequently buying more from other i)arties. 

In his younger da3s he was a somewhat extensive strawberry grower, 
selling his berries in New York. In order to be ready for the morning 
trade, he would go at night and return, a fter making his sales, to prepare 
for the following day. His berries brought good prices for those times. 
In addition to his trade in this line, he was also in the milk business for 
a period of about ten years, furnishing milk during all this time to one 
dealer in Jersey City, receiving two and one-half and three cents per 
quart. To these two commodities Mr. Ackernian attributed a good 
share of his success in money making. He was a successful farmer, 
and his crops were well tended; they yielded well, and when disposed 
of, the money was safely invested in farms, until about lS().s, when he 
began purchasing real estate in Paterson. Tliis was simplv as an 
investment, for he never sold any land, and at the time of his death he 
owned a large number of houses. In 1852 he and his wife became mem- 
bers of the Reformed Church, at Paramus, where they had attended all 
their lives, and from that time he was closely identified with all the 
interests of that church, serxing as deacon .md elder a greater ])art of 
the time until his death. 

Two children were l>orn to them, one of whom died in infancy, and 
the other, Elizabeth M., now the wife of Mr. A. A. Blauvelt, resides on 
the old homestead, being the lifth generation who have occu]jied this 
]jlace as ;i residence. Mr. Ackernian was a R<.'itublican in i)olitics, 
serving often in townshij) offices. 

ai!K'a:\i a. Hi.Ar\'i-;i.T. 

The Blauxelt family in this ])art of Bergen county are descendants 
of Henry Blauvelt, who settled on a considera1)le tract of land early in 
the present century, and lived there until he died, Deci'inbi-r 27, 1897, 
aged ninety-three years. He was born Junt' 22, 1S()3. Ilis wife, Chris- 
tina Baldwin, was born January 1'), 1807. Slie died .M.irch l.\ IS.Sl. 
Their children were Garret H., Thomas H. and .lolm Henry, who is 
living in Michigan, and David A., who jives on the old t.irm. 

(larretB. Hlauvet was born Sej)teniber 20, 1824. He married 
Jemima Ackernian, who was born February l.i, 182.^, and died Sejitem- 
ber 2. 1S')S. He died September 24, 18';8. They at lirst lived on u liirni 
at .\rcola. About thirty years before they died tlie\- retiri'd, taking u]) 
their residence at Paramus. 

Abram A. Blauvelt. the subject of this sketch, was their son. Ho 
was born August 20, 1.S44. His life has been s]nnt on a farm in the 



218 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

quiet pursuit of an avocation that has always been congenial to his 
tastes. He cares nothing' for political preferments, but is an official in 
the church, and has identitied himself with the Paramus Society for over 
twenty-five years. He is now serving his third term as elder of that 
church. Mr. Blauvelt was married to Miss Elizabeth M. Ackerman 
October 17, 1S(>(). She was born April 2, 1848. The^'have no children. 
Thev live on the old Ackerman homestead, and have a delightful home. 

HON. JOHN W. BOGEKT. 

Hon. John W. Bogert, the well-known Judge of the Court of Errors 
and Appeals, whose appointment first by Leon Abbett, the Democratic 
Governor of New Jersey, in 18'U, and again by Governor Griggs in 1897, 
proclaims both his efficiency and popularity. As a representative of the 
Bogert family, which came to this country from Holland several genera- 
tions ago and settled in Bergen county, the Judge inherits many of the 
admirable traits and characteristics of this sturdy race. Born Septem- 
ber 3, 1839. and reared within the precincts of the home of his immedi- 
ate ancestry, he has been called to numerous positions of trust and con- 
fidence which he has filled to his own credit and to the satisfaction of 
his constituents. The great grandfather of John W. was Stephen, and 
his grandparents were James S. and Sarah ( Westervelt) Bogert, whose 
son, Stephen J., was born April 3, 1813. His wife was Catharine Hop- 
per, the daughter of Albert G. Hopper, late of Ridgewood. John W. 
was their only child. He now owns and occupies the farm upon which 
his father passed his life, dying February 3, 1854. The Judge was 
educated in the public schools of Hohokus. He was elected township 
clerk when but twenty-one years of age, has held the office of township 
assessor, and was for fourteen years county collector. In 1874-1875 he 
was a member of the New Jersey State Assembly, and served as State 
Senator for four years, 188(), 1887, 1888 and 188'>, and as Judge of the 
court he has filled the office with distinction and to the general satis- 
faction of the public. 

Judge Bogert's wife was Miss Etta Ackerman. daughter of Daniel 
and Mariah Snyder Ackerman. She died in January, 189(), leaving two 
children. Sarah C, wife of Stephen L. Van Emburgh and Daniel A., 
unmarried. 

N. B. KirKTCK. 

N. B. Kukuck is a native of New York city, born August <>, 1827. 
He was for years associated with John Anderson & Company, tobaccon- 
ists, of New York, and after a successful business career retired in i872. 
Having purchased the old Ackerman homestead in 18«.'t. he has con- 
tinued to reside there to the present time. 

In politics Mr. Kukuck is independent He is a member of the 
Masonic fraternity. 

PETER O. TEKHEUN. 

Peter (). Terlieun is of the numerous family of that name in Bergen 
county. His grandfather was Peter I. Terheun, of Hackensack, whose 
son, John R., married Miss Mary A. Achenbach, and became the father 




Jl'Df.K JOHN W. BIMIKKT 



HISTOKY OK BKKGKN COUNTY . 2V) 

of our subject. Mr. Torheun was born in the earlv forties, on the old 
homestead near Ilohokus, and still resides there. After receiving a com- 
mon school education he entered Hartwick Seminary, near Cooperstown, 
N. Y., where he took a course of instruction, which finished his school 
career. Upon leaving school, he immediately began learning the trade 
of wood turning, with his father who was then conducting a profitable 
business in general wood work. After the war the business increased, 
assuming proportions of considerable magnitude. When the revenue 
was placed upon the product of their factory it reached at one time the 
sum of sixty dollars per month to the government. 

Mr. Terheun is a Republican, and has held the offices of Townshij) 
Collector and of Freeholder, and was also one of the Commissioners to 
determine and fix the Boundry Line between Passaic and Bergen counties. 

OKVn.I.K J. \'1CT()K. 

Mr. Orville J. Victor, a well known resident of Hohokus in this 
county, was born and bred in Ohio, educated for the law, but in his early 
manhood taking a turn toward literary ])ursuits, he secured an interest 
in The Sandusky (O.) Register as co-editor with the late Henry B. 
Cooke, the Washington banker. 

In 1858, Mr. Victor removed to New York city to edit The Cosino- 
politon Art Journal. He also assumed editorial control of The United 
States Journal, in 185't. He wrote his '■Hist<iry of American Cons])ira- 
cies," one vol., octavo, 18W)-()1, and contributed much to the New York 
press and magazines of that period. From 1862 to 1867 Mr. Victor was 
devoted to the production of his "History of the Southern Rebellion," 
completed in four royal octave volumes — a herculean task. It gave the 
author great prominence. 

Mr. \'ictor has been a life-long student of Ann-rican historv and 
affairs, and has gathered a unique collection of books and ])a]X'rs. of 
which he has made am])Ie use in his own contrihutiniis to our historical 
and political literature. His very extensive collection of books and doc- 
uments on the civil war he has sui)plemented with " scissorings " from 
the press, until now, it may be said, his data is unicpie and complete. 
This careful gathering has been with reference to a total rei)roduction 
of his voluminous history — bringing it within the compass of two octavo 
volumes, and making it what he believes is now possible a clear, im- 
partial and permanent library record of the great struggle. 

JOHN A. I'OST. 

John A. Post, one of the enterprising and successful men of Wald- 
wick, is termed a self-made man, or in other words he has built up, and 
carried on business, unaided, to a successful issue. Mr. Post is the son 
of Abram Q. and Jane (Valentine) Post and was born June 14, 1856. 
His father was a carpenter, the son learning the same trade, which he 
followed for four years. He then became employed by tiie Wortendyke 
Manufacturing Com])anv, in the manufacture of silk, where he learned 



220 ' HISTOKY OK BHKf.KX COUNTY 

the trade of throwing' and weaving-. In 1891, he began business for 
himself at his present location in Waldwick, in the work of silk throwing- 
ing, doing a strictly commission business. Beginning in a small way, 
with onlv twelve hands, he has steadily increased his capacity by 
extending the buildings and machinery, as the case demanded, until the 
establishment is now equipped with the latest modern appliances, 
keeping eightv hands employed. His custom is almost wholly in New 
York. 

He has under c(mtemplation a reorganization, as a stock company 
in order to further extend and enlarge his business, offering special 
inducements for a safe investment of capital. 

Mr. Post is a member of the F. and A. M. at Ridgewood, and in 
politics is independent. He was married in iS<S.^ to Miss Anna Acker- 
man, daughter of Abram A. Ackerman, of Bergen county. They have 
one son, Abram J. 



CHAPTER XXI. 
BOROUGHS. 

ALLENDALE — UPPEK AND LOWER SADDLE KIVEK — OKOANIZATION- INUIS- 
TKIES — SCHOOLS— CHURCHE.S — OLD HOTELS — BIOGRAPHICAL. 

The enterprising little villag'e of Allendale is of comparativlv 
modern growth, but is fast assuming- proportions worthy of a more dig- 
nified name. The place was named for Colonel Allen, one of the engin- 
eers engaged in the construction of the Erie Railroad. It has now sev- 
eral stores, a hotel and two flourishing churches. 

The land was first owned by John Lawbaugh and Paul Van Houten, 
and descended to their heirs, among whom were Joseph and Henry Mal- 
linson. Paul Van Houten was killed in the war of 1812. Johq Van Hou- 
ten, his brother, married Margaret Nickler, June 28, 1794 and settled 
subsequently f probably in a few years) in a little house near where John 
Youmans lived and died. He was born January 30, 176.^ and died May 
7, 1848. His wife died October in, 185.^. Their children were Paul and 
Margaret. Paul was born March 14, 1795, and died March 11, 1870. 
He was married May 30, 1835 to Miss Rebecca Demarest (born 1819, 
died June 5, 1881 ), daughter of James Demarest, of Oakland. Margaret 
married John Lawbaugh who was the father of Joseph Mallinson's first 
wife. 

Margaret, daughter of Paul, and Rebecca Demarest, was born 
August 3i, 1835. She married John Youmans May 25, 1855, and in 1807 
moved from Wyckoff to Allendale where she still resides. He died Feb- 
ruary 21, 1885. Anthony Crouter was an early settler here also. Henry 
Mallinson, his son-in-law owned the old homestead subsequently pur- 
chased by O. P. Archer, who came to the place thirty years ago from 
Dutchess county, N. Y. Smith Roswell began working on the Erie rail- 
road here in 1848, at which time (ieorge Brady, an Irishman, was carry- 
ing the mail from Ramsey's to Allendale, making the trip on foot, Mr. 
Roswell became postmaster in 1857 or 1858, securing his ap])ointment 
from President Buchanan. He kept the office without interruption unti 
1884, receiving the munificent income of twelve dollars a year, for the first 
twelve years of his official life. He was succeeded by R. V. Ackerman 
who in turn was followed by Mr. Roswell who had the office the second 
time. Mr. A. F. Krause, the station agent, is postmaster now. 

When thirty-two years old Mr. Roswell became connected with the 
Erie railroad and was their station agent at this jilace over thirty years. 
In 1805 he built his house. When he became postinasler of AlUiidale 
the following perstms lived in the vicinity : 

John G. Ackerman, Paul Van Houten. Anthony Crouter. John A. 
(iarrison. PeterG. Powell, Daniel Anthtmy, Joseph and Henry Mallinson 
John L. Youmans, (i. A. Smith, A. h. Zabriskie, all of whom except (i. 
A. Smith, Joseph Mallinson and Albert L. Zabriskie are now dead. 



•ZZZ HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

BOKOUGH OF ALLENDALE. 

During the latter part of the year 1894. the residents of Allendale, 
fearing- that the neighboring towns would incorporate under the Borough 
Act, and, by including a portion or the whole of Allendale, would thus 
divert its taxes to the improvement and maintenance of the other towns, 
determined, in order to protect themselves, to also incorporate. The 
survey was made to include about four square miles of territory, and 
the incorporation effected at the time mentioned. The population of 
the territory included within the boundries of the Borough is about 650. 
At its first election the following officers were installed: Peter D. 
Rapelje, Mayor; Walter Dewsnap, E. E. Burtis, H. C). Doty, George W. 
Hatch, Charles Parrigot, C. A. Ouackenbush, Council; R. L. Ximmu, 
Clerk. 

In the regular spring election of l.S'>S, they were re-elected for a 
second term. 

In spring election of 1897 the following officers were elected: 
(rcorge Cook, Mayor; Walter Dewsnap, J. J. Pulis, C. A. Hopper, Jesse 
Brown. John A. Mallinson, J. J. \'an(lerbeck, Council; G. G. Smith, 
Clerk. 

In the spring of 18')'i, the above officers were elected for a second 
term. 

The Board of Education now consists of W. C. Tallman, President; 
G. C;. Smith, Treasurer; H. J. Appjrt, S. J. Van Blarcum, S. T. Van 
Houten, C. A. Ouackenbush, John Ackerman. J. J. Van Horn, C. W. 
Stocker. 

The Board of Health consists of M. H. Blauvelt, President; G. G. 
Smith, Secretary; P. D. Rapelje, J. A. Mallinson, S. D. Brainard, R. R. 
Letts. 

Allendale proper is made up entirely of residences, mostly of those 
persons who have removed from New York, Brooklyn, and other 
adjacent cities. Since its incorporation as a Borough, the village has 
constantly expanded, and the income from its taxes having been devoted 
to the improvement of its streets, avenues, roads, school buildings, etc., 
and being entireh- devoid of all manufacturing plants, factories, etc.. 
It is rapidly becoming one of the favored spots for those seeking suburban 
homes. 

SCIIOCLS. 

In lS2i) the little old red scho(d house — a (me story frame building, 
sixteen by twenty four feet in dimensions, was built a half mile below 
the Allendale depot. Previous to this, two buildings had been erected 
for school purposes, but nothing definite has been learned concerning 
them. In this old school house, desks were arranged around the room 
on which the luckless urchins were doomed to sit from nine in the morn- 
ing until four in the afternoon. The first board of trustees was com- 
posed of John G. Ackerman, John (}. Ackerson and Albert A. Garrison, 
who employed Isaac Demarest as their earliest teacher. James Alfred 



HISTOKY OK BEKGKX COUNTY 223 

Ackerman now seventy six years of aye taug'ht his first schoul in this 
buiklinLT, fifty eight years ago. Henry II. \'an(lerbeck, James A. Acker- 
man, John Binder, son of the former Governor (ieneral of the ishind of 
Antiqua, and ISIiss Mary (ieroe, afterwards Mrs. Jacob Oatmaii of Pater- 
son, were all teachers here at different times. In 1S(>2 the old building 
was removed to John Wilson's farm where it now does duty as a gran- 
ary, and a new building twenty live by thirty five feet in dimensions, 
adorned with belfry and blinds, was erected at a cost of S2<l(iil, to take 
its place. Mr. James Alfred Ackcrman was a teacher also in this l)uild- 
iug and his nephew. J. J. Ackerman, is principal of the school al the 
present time. The house, which is an eleg-ant one, with new systems 
of improvement, was erected in IS'U) at a cost of S.-^(i(i. A kindergarten 
school is also maintained in connection wiili it and an excellent vourse 
of instruction secured. 

STOKKS. 

The Borough of Allendale carries on no manufacturing industry', 
but its commercial and mercantile enterprises are worthy of a name and 
helps to give support to a good hotel. Smith Roswell was the first to 
divert trade from adjoining towns to Allendale, by opening up a little 
store just opposite the depot, soon after he became identified with the 
villag'e, and the venture proved a profitable one to him for about eight 
years. A business centre having now become established, Morris S. 
Ackerman began selling goods in a part of the hotel and in iS72 A. G. 
Ackerman began a business which he has kept going to the present 
time. 

Twelve years ago Smith & Ilenion succeeded Winter, Leaman &. 
Co., and in iS'M, Smith & Cliristo])her succeeded Smith & Henion. 
These gentlemen with an extensive ]>atronage add elements of strength 
to the village of Allendale. 

THE MISSION CHAPKI, OI" Till': lU'I THAN V. 

Allendale, is the fruit of good seed planted by gentle and faithful 
hands. In January, 1872, Mrs. Stephen Cable, moved with compassion 
for the lambs without a shepherd, opened her house f(jr a Sunday school. 
On Epiphany Sunday, the good work was begun, fifteen scholars and six 
teachers being present. The^names of the teachers were Mrs. James 
Reading, a communicant of Christ Church, Ridgewood, and a daughter 
of St. Mary's Hall, Burlington, N. J., Mr. J. Reading. Mr. and Mrs. 
Harris, Miss Powell, and Miss Southwick. The school soon increased 
to seventy scholars, and other teachers enlisted, Mr. C. Conner and Miss 
Conner among the first. The enterprise enlisted the sui)])ort of all 
Christian people, and friends aided the good work. 

The following summer a barn was fitted n\t comfortably, and tlie 
school increased in favor. The ccmtributions for the Sunday school 
amounted in two years to S104, and from 1S72 to 1S7(> nearly S70() were 
raised. 



224 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

In September, 1873, public worship was held by the Rev. L. R. 
Dickinson. These services were continued at first monthly, and after- 
wards on alternate Sundays, and Hope Chapel, as it was then called, en- 
joyed the full service of the Protestant Episcopal Church. The mission 
was placed in charge of the rector of Christ Church, Ridgewood, and 
during- two years the faithful missionary horse did Sunday duty, driving 
to Ridgewood and returning, and then back again, a round of sixteen 
miles, that the flock may be fed. Afterwards the Erie Railroad re- 
lieved him of this labor, and he rested, as a good Christian, from work. 
"Peace to his ashes." 

In 1874 Daniel A. Smith became superintendent and the school flour- 
ished under his care. He was the first warden, then T. Calloway. E. 
G. Washburne is the present warden, while A. L. Zabriskie has been 
treasurer from the beginning. 

June 10th, 1876, the chapel was opened bv the minister in charge, 
for divine service, and on the 25 th of June Bishop Odenheimer laid, the 
corner stone and confirmed four persons. Mr. Smith was appointed lay 
reader, and $972 was contributed for building and furniture. On July 
4th, 1880 at an early Communion service the chapel bell bought by the 
class in charge of Mrs. Harris, was first rung. They are now about to 
build a new edifice. Rev. C. H. S. Hartman was appointed in charge 
May 24, 1892; he was here until April 1894. Rev. William Haskel was 
a supply until November 1895, and the Rev. William Allen, the first 
resident priest, at present in charge, was appointed by the Bishop Sep- 
tember 6, 1896. Under the faithful and efficient ministry of Rev. Mr. 
Allen, the number of communicants has increased from thirty-two to 
eighty. 

THE AKCHEK MEMORIAL CHI'KCH. 

A chapel was built here by O. P. H. Archer in 1876, and was con- 
siderably enlarged by him in 1893, several niem(5rial windows were 
included, the whole cost being about §18,000. The church now has a 
membership of 150 persons under the pastorate of C. C. Winans, who 
came here in April, 1898. Mr. O. H. P. Archer, president of the Board 
of Trustees, died in May, 1899. 

GEOROE COOK. 

George Cook, Allendale's second an(# present Mayor, was born in 
St. Ciair, Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania, on the 13th daj' of July, 
1862, and is directly descended from the old English stock of that name. 
His father, John Cook, was born in I^ancashire, England, his mother's 
people coming from Leicestershire. Emigrating to this country when 
about twenty-five years of age, his father took up his residence in 
Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania, where he engaged in the manufacture 
of boots and shoes. In 1863 he volunteered as a captain in the Union 
Army, and served with distinction until the close of the war, at which 
time he removed with his family to Washington, D. C, where he still 
resides, and at the present time is one of the city's wealthy and leading 



HISTOKY Ol- HKK(;EN' county IZT! 

financiers. George, one of his two living' children, attended the public 
schools until about twelve years of age, when he entered Emerson Insti- 
tute, and from which he was graduated four years after. He then 
entered Columbia University, from the law dei)artment of which, at the 
age of twenty, he was graduated and received his several degrees, sub- 
sequently being admitted to practice before the Courts of the District of 
Columbia, and later the Supreme Court of the United States. 

In 1885 he removed to New York, where, in the special branch of 
patent law, he has built up an extensive and lucrative practice, his 
clientage consisting largely of manufacturing firms and corpi)rations, 
located in New York, Pennsylvania. New Jersey and Connecticut. 

In politics Mr. Cook is an ardent Rej^ublican, and at the time of his 
first election as Mayor, was president of the Allendale Republican Club. 
Mr. Cook is a member of several of the leading social clubs of Bergen 
and Passaic counties. Past Master of the Masonic Lodge in Ridgewood, 
is a Knight Templar, and a member of Mecca Temple <if the Mystic 
Shrine in New York city. 

In 1885 he married the daughter of Ex-Governor Charles P. John- 
son, of Missouri, a grand-daughter of the late Thomas Parker, of 
Washington, D. C, a short time afterward, about ISS", taking up his 
residence in Allendale, where he still resides. 

He was first elected Mayor in March, IS'iT. and re-elected in 
March, 1899. 

JOSEPH JIAI.IJNSOX. 

Joseph Mallins<m. of Allendale, is a son of Henry C. and Mary 
(Netherwood) Mallinson. and was born in Yorkshire, England, January 
17th, 1822. His father, who was a woolen manufacturer, emigrated to 
America in 1829, locating first at Mill Neck, L(mg Island, where he 
followed wool weaving for a few years, when he removed to Clarkstown, 
Rockland county, N. Y., continuing in the same business. He finally 
removed to New Jersey, where he i)assed the remainder of his life, dying 
at the age of fifty-six years. Of the ten childr^-n in the family, the eld- 
est, Henry, was a wheelwright, and passed his life in Bergen county. 
Joseph, the second, Elizabeth, now Mrs. Robert Hamilton, Joshua, of 
Susquehanna, Pa., Sarah, wife of (reorge Smith, .Mary Jane, wife of 
(ieorge Harrison, of Kansas, Lydia. now Mrs. Joseph l<'ishtr. of New 
York state, Rachel, who married Martin Seward, of Saver, Pa., .Iuli:i. 
now Mrs. Wilkinson, and John James. 

Mr. Mallinson married first, in 1848, Miss Ann Eliza Lawl)augh, 
daughter of John Lawbaugh. Tluir children are John Andrew, a 
farmer and carriage painter, who is connected with his father in busi- 
ness, William Henry, Sarah Ellen, and Anna Elizabeth, wife of Corne- 
lius Hopper. Mrs. Mallinson died in 1S(,1. and in lSf).> Mr. Mallinson 
married Mary Ann Wcstervelt. 

Mr. Mallinson is now the oldest settler in Allendale-, having loc:i- 
ted here in i84S. With his sons hi- has followed c;irriage i)ainting and 



22t) HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

decorating- while also conducting a small farm. He and his family be- 
long to the Methodist church, and in politics he is independent. Mr. 
Mallinson originally owned a considerable portion of the land now em- 
braced in the village of Allendale. 

GAKKET G. SMITH. 

Garret G. Smith, merchant, in Allendale, and in various capacities 
serving the borough officially, is a grandson of Albert G. Smith of 
Holland origin, who died in this part of Bergen county in 1868, ninety 
years of age. The grandmother's name was Hopper, and their children 
were. Cornelius A., John A., and Garret A. The homestead is on the 
road leading from Allendale to Wyckoff. Garret A. Smith was born in 
1820, and is still living-. He was formerly a millwright and has been a 
successful and somewhat extensive farmer. He was married to Miss 
Eliza Jane Lake, daughter of Abraham Lake, who owned large property 
in Paterson. His garden then covered the site now occupied by the 
Passaic Hotel. Mr. Lake used to cart molasses from New York to 
Paterson, but later in life moved to the Pond (Oakland) where he died. 
Eight children were born to Mr. Smith, all of whom are living. Albert 
G., the oldest son, has been Justice of the Peace fourteen years in Camp- 
gaw, N. J., and has been re-elected. Garret G. Smith was born in 18(>(). 
He was educated in the State Normal School, but when twenty-six j-ears 
of age came to Allendale where he has followed merchandizing. In 
1894 when the borough of Allendale was formed he was chosen its first 
collector and was also elected Clerk of the Board. He became a member 
and Treasurer of the Board of Education and was also made secretary 
of the Board of Health. He is an influential citizen of the Borough 
and is frequently called to office. 

His wife was Miss Matilda Blauvelt. daughter of Abram A. l>lau- 
velt, who was deputy sheriff of this county for many years. 

I'PPEK AND I.OWEK SADDLE KIVEK BOKGI'GHS. 
BY JOHN G. ESLEK. 

Saddle River became a borough on December l'», l,s'>4, I)y a \-ote of 
fiftv-six to six of its inhabitants. 

It was prior to its formation as a borough a portion of Orvil town- 
ship. The first officers of the boroug-h were B. Oblenis. mayor; G. A. 
Ackerman, Albert Z. Winters, John G. Esler, Frank Blackledge. and 
Frederick Demarest, councilmen; Abram H. Ackerman. assessor; and 
William H. Packer, collector. 

There is very little authentic record concerning the early settlers of 
what now constitutes Saddle River Borough, but an old Indian deed 
conveying the Wearimus Tract to Albert Zaborowsky given in 1702. bv 
several Indian Chiefs, points to the Polish Pretender as probably the 
earliest land owner of the Saddle River valley. A copy of this deed is 
given in full below. 

"Whereas in the year i(>7.=> according to the Christian account, 
Mamshier, the Indian Sachem, as also Metotoch and Checkepowas owners 



HISTORY OK BKKGEN COUNTY 22/ 

and Natural proprietors of several tracts of land lying on and above the 
place where the Eng'lish have made Division of the Provinces of York 
and the Jerseys — Did by Having commerce contract, Debts with the 
Susjects of the King of England our Royal Friend &c and particularly 
with one Albert Zaborowskv of Hackingsack in the Province of h^asl 
Jersey, and in order to the discharging the same Did give unto the Said 
Albert Zaborowsky a certain tract of land by us known by the name of 
Naracchoug but before the same was Regularly by Deed Conveyed unto 
the said Albert Zaborowsky to the end abovess, the above named Sachem 
and owuerf dyed and the said tract of land intended, was by us his Suc- 
cessors Made over to other Men and the Debts of the Defunct left un- 
paid, for the Defraying whereof, and the fulfilling the known Desires of 
our Dead Brethern, Bee it known unto all people and Nations, Before 
whom this testament Shall or may come That we (e) Orachanap 
alias Metachenah Coorang and Nemeriscon Have given, granted, made 
over and Confirmed and by these presents Do(e) give grant, 
make over & Confirm unto the Said Albert Zaborowsky his helpers and 
Assigns all that tract of land lying on the South East side of Saddle 
River beginning on the North East bounds of a Certain piece of land 
which Cleass Janson Romayn bought of the East Jersey Proprietors, 
close to the Said Saddle River, from thence running along the Line of 
of the Said Class Jasson Romyn until it comes to the utmost Marked 
black oak of his said line from thence further beyond said tree until it 
Shall come to a great Rock near about Whom a certain Tree marked on 
all four sides shall be found, from thence in a straight line to a certain 
small runn Which is Easterly Just below a certain old Indian field or 
plantation known by the name of Weromens i to a certain marked peach 
( h ) tree Marked on all four sides from thence in a straight course till it 
comes to a certain wild cherries tree or white oak Tree Marked on thr^e 
sides and from thence quite to the Saddle River and then along the said 
Saddle River to the place where it began, accounting the said tract of 
Land to be one thousand and two hundred acres of English Measur.'" 
within the limits and bounds Mentioned and S])ecified provided that if 
the Said number of acres should perhaj)s not ai)])ear within the sai d 
Limits, and vice versa if, there should hap])en U> ap])ear a greater num- 
ber of acres than above specified, we the above named owners shall l)e 
also contented with it, & grant the same over plus by these present to the 
Said Albert Zaborowsky his Heirs and Assigns within the aforesaid limits 
with all the Rights, Titles, Priviledges and Apputtenances, of, or to the 
said Tract of land or any part thereof belonging or in any manner ol 
ways appertaining. To Have and to hold the Said Tract of Land and 
premises with all and every its a])])urtenances unto the Said Albert Zabo- 
owsky his heirs and Assigns forever. To Be, and Remain to the sole & 
proper use. Benefit and behoof of Him the Said Albert Zaborowsky his 
Heirs and assigns forever, and Hereby Desire Her Most Sacred Majesty 
the Oueen of England, that she will be graciously pleased to Protect the 
Said Albert Zaborowskv his Heirs and Assigi.s in the ])eacealile iiosses- 



228 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

sion thereof so that we may never be obstructed in our Just Intentions and 
fair Dealings with her subjects. In witness whereof we have hereunto 
set our hands and fixed our Scales according- to the English manner this 
first day of June 1702 &c in the first yeare of the Reign of the Most 
Sereen Lady Annie Queen of England. 

Signed sealed & Delivered &c in the presence of L. B. L. Burgh 
Johannis Jlyngsrlurd (Slinkerland ) John Ccmrad Codwere Then follows 
their peculiar signitures. 

The title of the deed is Deed of Conveyance from the Indians to 
Albert Zaborowsky for Weeromnensa. 

The following Memorandum is written on the left hand corner of 
this deed: 

"That on the twenty-third day of May, in the Twelfth year of the 
Reign of our Soverigu Lady Anne by the Grace of God our Great Bri- 
tain, France, Ireland, Queen Defender of the Faith &c Anno Doni 1713 
personally' appeared before me Peter Soumans Esq of her Majestys Coun- 
cil for the Province of New Jersey, Johannus, Slingerland within named 
who being sworn upon the holy Evangelist of Almighty God declared 
that he saw the within Named Indians execute the Instrument on the 
other side as their free and voluntary Act and deed and heard them de- 
clare their meaning and intention to be as the other side to mentioned 
on the day and year the rein Specified. 

Petek Soum.yns." 

On the reverse of the Indian deed is a conveyance of half of the 
Weareomensa tract by Albert Zaborowsky to Thomas Van Boskerk. 
This deed is dated March 29, 1708, and is signed by Albert Zaborowsky. 
This document is at present in the possession of J. Hosey Osborn, of 
Paterson. It is said that this is the only signature of that famous indi- 
vidual who was the ancestor of the Zabriskie family of the present day. 
There is little doubt but that Thomas Van Boskerk was the first settler 
of the Saddle River Vallev, and his descendants to-day occupy a con- 
siderable portion of the land which Albert Zaborowsky bought from the 
Indians and conveved to their progenitor. Other early settlers were the 
Ackermans, Ackenbachs, C(mk!ins and Baldwins. John George Achen- 
bach located on the Eastern hill overlooking the Valley. He was a 
German Shepherd boy who ran away with his employer's daughter, and 
the eloping pair never c(mimunicated their whereabouts to their relatives 
in the Fatherland. The graves of these early settlers are located on a 
])romontory overlooking the Saddle River Brook a few rods soutli of the 
land of Thomas Eckerson. A flat stone gathered from their farms, 
marks their resting place, but the winds and storms of a century and a 
half have effaced the rude inscriptions that denoted their individual 
graves. The only person from Saddle River to actively participate in 
the American Revoluti(m was the notorious Lieutenant Colone IVan 
Buskerk, wlio joined the Royalists and led predatory bands of Tories in 
a number of raids into Bergen county. With one exception the sym- 
pathies of the Van Buskerk family was with the Royalists. The Acker- 



HISTOKV OK BKKC.KN COUNTY 229 

mans wuro <li\'i(le(l in their synipathii's, and the Achenbacks were do- 
cidc<lly in favor of the rebels, as was Louis Cc)nklin, whose brother-in- 
law, Henry Esler, of Rockland county, was an officer in the rebel arniv. 
A portion of Washington's army at one time passed through the vallev 
and encamped for one night on the farm now belonging to the estate of 
Henry G. Ackerman. This was supposed to be Colonel Burr's regiment 
on one of its raids. 

The war of 1812 found Mrs. Valleau, an estimable and patriotic 
lady, the occupant of what is at the time of writing the Dewsnap prop- 
erty. One <if her sons, Ming Valleau. enlisted in the American army 
and was killed. His brother Lieutenant John \'alleau went to the front 
to avenge his brother's death and was likewise killed in the gallant 
charge on Oueenstown Heights. Valleau Cemetery at Pararaus in later 
years, was named for this patriotic mother who sent her sons to do 
battle for their country. Foremost among those who made Saddle River 
famous in the early days of the nineteenth century was David L Acker- 
man the proprietor of the works known as the Triphammer. 

Mr. Ackerman, the grandfather 'of ex-sheriiT and present surrogate 
David A. Pell of Bergen county w^as an energetic business man, a large 
landed proprietor, and slaveholder, who was noted for his liberality a nd 
philanthropy-. Andrew Esler a millwright and builder was widely known 
as the builder of the tide water Mills on the Hackensack River, and 
as the architect and builder of the Lutheran Church at Saddle River. 
Trade unions w'ere unknown in the twenties and Esler and his men 
shouldered their tools on Monday morning and walked to the Hacken- 
sack River a distance of ten miles in time to commence work at sunrise, 
(iarret Zabriskie, a descendant of Albert Zaborowskv, a school teacher 
and land surveyor, was also widely known. Thomas Van Buskerk. a 
descendant of the first settler by the same name, w as noted as a large 
slaveholder and one of the last to own a slave in the vicintv of Saddle 
River. The last slave owned by the old gentleman was incited to run 
away Ijv William Osborn, Mr. \an Buskerk's son-in-law. Garret Acker- 
man, another large Landowner and the ancestor of a great man\ of the 
Ackermans of the northern portion of Bergen county was widely known 
and Abram Van Riper, Sr., a manufacturer of cotton goods, was one of 
the leading spirits of his time. Thomas .Achenbach, father of (ieorge 
Achenbach the first president of the Hackensack Bank, was, together 
with David I, Ackerman one of the founders of the Lutheran Congrega- 
tion. John 'Van Buskerk, great grandfather of the ])resent sheriff of 
Bergen county, Jacob \'an Buskerk, was one of the first mill owners in 
the valley and was widely noted for his corporosily, being of such 
breadth that he was unable to tie his own shoe laces. 

The earliest utilization of the water i)ower of the Saddle River was 
a grist and saw mill owned by Garret Ackerman upon the site of John 
R. Achenbach's grist mill. In the early years of the nineteenth century 
the "Triphammer" was widely known. The " Trijjhammer" forged the 
farmer's tools in vogue in those days. In llu' early fifties it ])assed 



230 ■ HISTOKY OK BEKGEN COUNTY 

into the hands of John Woodruff who ran a foundry and also manufac- 
tured farmers" tools. Parker & Terwillig-er succeeded Woodruff and 
they in turn were succeeded by W. W. Packer & Son, who still manu- 
facture tools and also haye added two warehouses, in which a large 
stock of wagons are stored. 

In 1822 John Van Buskirk built a grist mill upon the present site 
of Thurston & Clark's hosiery mill. In 1856 Dr. Oblenis and John 
Demarest purchased the property and began the manufacture of woolen 
yarn, under the firm name of Oblenis & Demarest. In 1860 Dr. Oblenis 
purchased the interest of Mr. Demarest continuing the business for 
nearly twenty 3'ears, when J. Augustus Bogert became the partner of 
Dr. Oblenis, and the new firm manufactured Cardigan Jackets. H. 
W. Thurston succeeded Oblenis & Bogerty and hosiery was manufac- 
tured until the mill was burned October .^1, 18')7. Thurston & Clark 
then erected the present hosiery plant. 

A mill for the manufacture of cloth, was erected in the early thirties, 
on the present site of Hardy's Ice Houses. In a few years Abram Van 
Riper became the owner. This mill burned and Mr. Van Riper erected 
a shingle mill, which in the early fifties was turned into a basket 
factory, by Abram Van Riper, Jr. In 1863 the basket factory was torn 
down and a mill was built for the manufacture of woolen yarn, the 
owners being Van Riper & Blessing. This property in 1868 passed into 
the possession of W. W Ward, who for many years manufactured high 
grade mechanics' tools. In addition to these in the early half of the 
nineteenth century yarn was manufactured at what was known as the 
Blue Mill, now the Hamlyn property. 

A hat factory was run near the "Triphammer". A tannery was 
operated on property now owned by Thomas Van Buskirk, and also a shoe 
factory. Cigars and tobacco were marufactured by Henry and George 
Esler, in the early forties. M. M. Smith's basket factory was started in 
1878, and is still running. 

The first school building in the Saddle Riyery Valley was erected 
before the dawn of the ninetweenth century. The exact date of its erec- 
tion is shrouded in mystery but it seryed as a shelter to those who 
acquired a knowledge of the rudiments of the "three R's" until 1825. 
The building was of stone, fitted up with rude desks and slab benches, 
and was heated by a huge fire place, which in summer was used as a place 
of imprisonment for unruly boys; a fireboard being fitted so as to close 
the fire place when not in use. A loose partition was used to make the 
room larger or smaller as the attendance required. After this building 
was torn down, the then rising generatiim supplied themselyes with slate 
pencils found on the site of the old building, which had been lost by their 
fathers through the chinks in the floor. The building was located a few 
yards west of the present residence of William Henry Osborn. In 1825 a 
two story frame school house was erected where the Hall of the Ladies 
Social Union now stands. The land was dtmated by Dayid Ackerman, 
for school purposes and reyerted to his heirs when the school was moyed 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 2^1 

to another site in later years. The ground floor of this buihliniJ- was 
used as a school room and the second story as a lecture and class room 
for the Lutheran Sabbath School. The early furniture was slab benches 
and home made desks, but during' the last years of its use it was fitted 
with lid desks and neat wooden benches which were arranged around the 
outer edge of the room with scholars facing the wall. This building 
when too delapidated for school purposes was sold to William Osborn who 
for many years thereafter used it as a paint shop. One of the first 
teachers who taught school in this building was Garret Zabriskie, a 
direct descendant of the original Albert Soborowski. He was a local 
celebrity who taught the village school, pulled teeth, and surveyed his 
neig'hbors lands besides giving good advice to all who applied. Another 
teacher was a Mr. Dunspaugh of Columbia county, N. Y., who is still 
remembered by many for the thorough manner in which he taught the 
multiplication table, and the Rev. Matthew Waltemire who having been 
diciplined by the Lutheran Conference, and debarred from preaching 
because of confessed immorality, taught school in the old red school house 
and made a record that drew pupils from neighboring towns. The build- 
ing was abandoned in 1855 for school purposes but before being entirely 
discarded had to be closed in the Winter, because it was impossible to 
keep the children warm. The school furniture was moved to a building 
located where Debauns grocery now stands, which had been rented of 
John D. Naugle for school purposes. Here a teacher who was christened 
by the boys "Old Fitch" taught for a single Winter. This pedagogue 
was noted for his love of ease and it was common for him to fall asleep 
during school hours, and while he soared in dreamland his pupils learned 
more mischief than arithmetic. In 1855 a brick school house was built 
on the old site. The erection of a school building by taxation was an 
innovation and that this building was erected by this method was due to 
the persistent efforts of John Demarest, Henry Esler and Henry Achen- 
bach, three of the most progressive men in the district who were the 
trustees and who led the fight. School meeting after School meeting was 
called and time and again they were beaten until at length Abram Van 
Ryper, Senior, who was the proprietor of a basket manufactory espoused 
their cause and with his employees carried the last meeting in favor of 
the erecticm of a school house by taxation. This building was remodeled 
1868 and was used until 188() when the present edifice was erected. John 
H. Morrow, now a well known citizen of Paterson, N. J., commenced his 
career as a teacher in this building. Cornelius P. Crouter who won the 
good will of his scholars and maintained discipline by persuasion mostly, 
but by force when necessary wielded the birch for the first time in the 
brick school house. John Moore, a graduate of Yale College, here 
also acquired his first experience with a district school. His dis- 
cipline was so strict that the big boys, "a la Dewey," planned to " lick the 
teacher" but the trustees nip])ed the incipient plot in the bud. Moore 
afterwards adopted different tactics and won the good will of his scholars. 
J. Alfred .Vckerman and .lohn J. .\ckerinan both of whom have taught in 



232 HISTOKV OK BEKGEX COUXTV 

Berg-en County Schf)ols for the past twent3--five years here commenced 
their careers as instructors of the 3-oung. The present school building 
was built in 1886 and enlarged in 1898, when it was fitted with hot air 
furnace and latest improved furniture. It is capable of seating one hun- 
dred scholars and is at the present time under the direction of Miss Elsie 
Stephenson, in the advanced department, and Miss Helen E. Morley in 
the primary department. Miss Emma Backster of Hackensack died in 
the Spring- of 1891 while in charge of the school. Her untimely death 
was universally lamented as she had endeared herself to pupils and par- 
ents alike. J. Hosey Osborn now a Paterson book seller was also a popu- 
lar teacher and Arthur Ackerraan of local fame also taught the school 
for one season. The people of Saddle River Boroug-h are noted for their 
pride in the school and roads, and money for all necessary requirements 
is voted without hesitation. 

Prior to 1820 the inhabitants of what now constitutes Saddle River 
Borough, worshipped in the old Reformed Church at Upper Saddle 
River, or the Reformed Church at Paramus. In 1801 a call was extended to 
the Rev. John Frederick Ernst Ijv a small body of Lutherans but for 
some reason was not accepted. This movement however led to the 
organization of a Lutheran cougreg-ation and in 1820 the corner stone 
of the present Lutheran Church was laid up<m land donated by Thomas 
Van Buskirk. The church was designed and built by Andrew Esler. 
Rev. Henry N. Pahlman was the first pastor. He was succeeded by the 
Rev. David Hendricks and he by the following pastors in the order 
named. Rev. Henry I. Schmidt, Rev. William L. Gibson, Rev. John 
Eisenlord, Rev. J. C. Duy, Rev. George Nepp, Rev. Matthew W. 
Waldenmeyer, Rev. Nicholas Wert, Rev. Ephraim Deyor, Rev. Laurent 
D. Wells, Rev. W. A. Julian, Rev. Jnhn E. Switzer, Rev. Peter M. 
Rightmeyer, Rev. David M. Shetler, Rev. J. V. Bodine, Rev. E. Hughes 
and the Rev. Charles Hutton, the present incumbent. The Rev. Dr. 
Schmidt after leaving the Saddle River charge became a literary pro- 
fessor in Columbia College, New York. William Osborn served as sext( n 
of the church for upwards of forty years after its organization and Henry 
Esler served as choristor for as many years, before musical accompani- 
ments became fashionable. The grounds for the original cemetery in 
rear of the church were donated by David I. Ackerman, and afterwards 
an additional donation of land was made for cemetery- purposes, by Mr. 
Ackerman, with the proviso that the money accruing from the sale of lots 
should be used to purchase a bell. This was about the j-ear 1850 and the 
bell is still in use. The cemetery has recently been enlarged by lan<l 
purchased from Jnhn H. Osborn and ground donated by John I), and 
George D. Berdan. In 1891 a meeting of the N. Y. and N. J. Lutheran 
Synod was held in the Saddle River Lutheran Church. 

The Saddle River post office was established March 27, i852, at 
which time Henry Esler was appointed postmaster. Prior to that date 
the inhabitants received their mail from New Prospect post office (now 
Hohokus) three miles distant. In the P"all of i85i John Cole, a resident 



HISTOKV OF lilCKGEN COl-NTY 233 

of Rochester, New York, but a frequent visitor at Saddle River began 
an agitation for a post office. A meeting was held at the residence of 
Henry Esler. Prominent among those present were John Cole, Henry 
Achenbach, John Demarest, William Osborn, Garret A. Osborn, Garret 
Ackerman, John J. Hopper, Colonel Henry G. Ackerman, John U. Ik-r- 
dan, Henry Esler and (ieorge Esler. The petition, signed by these 
gentlemen and others, bore fruit the following Spring in the establish- 
ment of the Saddle River post office. John D. Berdan secured the first 
contract for carrying the mail, and made the weekly trip on foot on 
Saturday evenings, and only once in his eight years service as mail 
carrier did he fail to deliver the mail promptly, and on that occasion a 
freshet had carried away the Hohokus bridge, thereby making it impos- 
sible for him to reach his destination. Henry Esler served as post- 
master from the time of his appointment in i852, until his death in iSS4, 
nearly thirty two and one half years. He was succeeded by John (i. 
Esler who served four years, and he by John N. Leamon who held the 
office two years. The next postmaster William F. Barkham served four 
years and Frank H. Storms also served a four year term. He was suc- 
ceeded by John G. Debaum, the present incumbent. The mail service 
during Henry Esler's term was gradually increased from a weekly mail 
to a daily mail, and under the regime of Postmaster F^rank H. Storms, 
the postal service was increased to a mail twice a day. The mail carrier 
who succeeded John D. Berdan was Peter P. Ackerman a blind man, 
familiarly known as Blind Pete, who performed the service on horseljack. 
David Tice was the succeeding c(jntractor but the mail was carried by 
his son John J. Tice. He was succeeded by Edward Eckerson, and 
Eckerson by Garret Ackerman and he in turn by (iarret H. Osborn as 
contractor although for a long time the actual carrier was his father, 
William Osborn. Mr. Osborn was succeeded by the present sub-con- 
tractor Abram H. Ackerman. During the contract of Edward T. Ecker- 
son the mail route was changed so as to embrace Pascack P. (). In the 
early eighties the mail route was changed to Allendale as a terminus in- 
stead of Hohokus and since that tiair the mail service lias been by way 
of Allendale. 

From the earlv thirties to the commencement of the civil war Col- 
onel Henry G. Ackeman kept a noted hostelrie in the Saddle K\\cr 
Valley. Mr. Ackeman was known far and wide as "Old Tij)." Tlu' 
sobriquet having been obtained from his ardent advocacy of William II. 
Harrison, ( Tippecanoe ) for president. 

In the days when Mr. Ackcman's hotel was in its glory, campmeet- 
ing at Hohokus and Haverstraw was in vogue and this inn being on the 
line of travel was largely patroniztd by those who attended these con- 
vocations, as accommodations for man and beast could always be 
secured. 

The sign of a hotel which was in existence before the Revdlution- 
arv war is in the possession of John R. Achenbach, but where it was 
located is not known. 



234 



HisTOKv OF bhk(;kn county 



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b 




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0-%ii^r 




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-%^ 


■\:^ '■ 


. jj 






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^^^^^^Q» 1 


W^^^^^%S" 


SJ 



KESint:NCK OF JOHN H. OSBOKSE--SArH>LK KIVP;k BOROUGH 

In 1860 C. S. DeBauu started a hotel on the "corner" and after a 
few years William Christie became the landlord. He was succeeded b_v 
Owen Rumsey, and he in turn by David Palis. For the past twenty 
years there has been no hotel within the territory which now constitutes 
the boroug'h. 

I'PPKK S.\DDLE KIVKK BOKOUGH. 

Upper Saddle River Borough was organized a few days before its 
neighbor, Saddle River Borough, and it comprises the upper portion of 
the Saddle River Valley. Its first officers were James D. Carlough, 
mayor; Samuel J. DeBaun, Peter P. Bush, George Osborn, Jacob Banta, 
Jacob H. Zabriskie and James Hennion, Councilmen; Herman Hopper, 
assessor; and Herman Terhune, collector. The oldest church in the 
Saddle River Valley is located near the state line and is known as the 
" St(me" Church. The present edifice was built in 1819 and its prede- 
cessor, also a stone church, was erected at least fifty years previous. 
The first church had no pews and attendants at worship brought chairs 
or wooden benches upon which to sit. The denomination is Reformed 
and the Rev. Mr. Van Campen is its present pastor. A Methodist 
church familiarly known as " Little Zion " was erected in 1849 through 
the efforts of Abram Van Riper, James V. B. Terwilliger, Peter Crouter 
and Herman Tice. Its present pastor is the Rev. Joseph Ware. 

The first school house built in the Borough Limits, dates back to 
the early da^-s of the ninteenth century, and was located nearly opposite 
the present residence of Edgar Terhune. Afterwards a school building 
was erected upon the site and was succeeded by the present modern 
structure built in iS9(). About sixty years ago a small school building 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 235 

was erected in the rear of the " Stone " Church for the purpose of em- 
ploying- the Rev. Mr. Brough, a Baptist minister to teach. This seced- 
ing- school -w-as run for abont t-wentv years when the school district com- 
prising- the present Boroug-h was again united. 

The cemetarj in the rear of the Reformed Church contains the 
remains of some of the earliest settlers of the Saddle River Vallev. 

JOHN H. OSBOKNE. 

John H. Osborne was born at Saddle River, November 1*<, 1.S.^2, and 
is the son of William Osborne and Catharine Van Buskirk. 

After being- for thirty-five years in the commission business in New 
York city he retired from active life about seven years ago, living since 
that time in comparative retirement. 

Mr. Osborne married Miss Catharine Hossey. They have three 
children: William, John Hossey and (iarret. 

JOHN G. KSI.KK. 

John G. Esler, senior member of the firm of J. G. & A. Esler, flor- 
ists of Saddle River, is genial and affable in disposition, pleasing in 
address, and judicious in all his dealings. Of German extraction he has 
the determination, aggressiveness and continuity of that thrifty race. 

Mr. Esler is descended in direct line from Henry Esler, who with his 
father, John Esler, came to America in March 1739, from the village of 
Plattenburg in the province of Oldenburg, Germany, and settled near 
Suffern, Rockland county, N. Y. A house now standing, near Suffern, 
was erected by Henry in 1765 and is said to be the oldest building in the 
county. 

Henrv Esler was a Lieutenant in Washington's army during the 
Revolution. His son Andrew was a millwright and an enterprising man, 
having built a number of mills on the Hackensack river and the Luth- 
eran Church at Saddle River. Andrew had two sons, Henry and George. 
Henrv who was the father of John (i., was for thirty-five 3'ears post- 
master of Saddle River, and also f(dlowed the occupation of millwright. 
His wife, (the mother of John (i., ) was Miss Jane Snyder, a native of 
Rockland county, N. Y. 

Mr. Esler was born, in the locality in which he now lives, on Sej)- 
tember 17, 1846. After receiving a common school education, he entered 
Bryant & Stratton's Business College in New York from which he was 
graduated in March 1866. Immediately thereafter he took a position as 
bookkeeper in the office of a commission dealer in Barclay street, from 
which he was eventually compelled to retire on account of his eyesight 
becoming impaired by the use of gaslight. 

During the following two years Mr. Esler engaged in the cattle 
trade, but when his partner was elected sheriff of the county, Mr. Esler 
took charge of his father's farm, serving- as clerk of Hohokus township 
for three years of this time. He also served as Postmaster from i8,s4 to 
1888. In 1 873 he built a small greenhouse in which he became so much 
interested that in i878 he formed a partnership with his cousin .Andrew 
Esler, for the growing of plants and flowers, to which they now (le\-ote 




JOHN G. KSI.KK 



HISTOKY OF BHKOKX COUNTY 237 

some 10,000 feet of glass. At present he is the secretary of the Flor- 
ists' Hall Association of which he was one of the originators. In iSS7, 
a few men, among them Mr. Esler, met in New York city and completed 
a set of by-laws for the government of this orgiinization and through 
his efforts an amendment to the insurance laws of New Jersey, allowed 
of its incorporation in that state. In this association over l(i,(>()(i,(H)(i 
square feet of glass is now insured. 

In addition to his labors in the different societies and other organi- 
zations connected with his business, he has been president of the Orvil 
Co-operative Building and Loan Association for ten years and is a mem- 
ber of the School Board and was a member of the Borough Council of 
Saddle River Borough for five years after its organization. He is now a 
director in the De Lamere Printing and Publishing Co. of New York, 
and has also been connected with the Hackensack Republican, besides 
contributing to various periodicals. Mr. Esler was married in iS7() to 
Miss Rosea J. C. Ward, daughter of William Ward, of English parent- 
age. They have three children, Lola W., Nellie J., and Mary U. In 
religion he is an agnostic and in politics a Republican, inclining to be 
indejiendent. 



CHAPTER XXII. 
R I D G E W O O D. 

(lENEKAL DESCKIPTION — SCHOOLS — MANUFACTURING — HIGHWAYS — THE 

VILLAGE OF KIDGEWOOD — CIVIL LIST — ORGANIZATION — 

NEWSPAPERS — CHURCHES — BIOGRAPHY. 

Ridgewood (one of the smallest townships in the countv) is remark- 
able for its natural beauty and the diversity of its scenery. From the 
ridg'e tops a magnificent panorama opens to view, in some instances 
extending miles in all directions, while the fertile valleys between the 
heights and along the brooks lend an added interest to this charming 
locality. The shady roadways and fine drives constitute an interesting 
feature of this township, the drives being so fine as to be much used by 
cyclers during pleasant weather. The town is watered by the Saddle 
River, which forms its Eastern boundary line, and the Hohokus, which 
runs through the central portion. The chief point of historical inter- 
est in this township is said to have been the marriage of Aaron Burr to 
the widow Provost, in the old Paramus Church. 

An Act organizing the township of Ridgewood was approved 
March 30, 1876. The territory of this township was taken from that of 
Franklin. The township officers for the year 1876, were as follows: — 
Freeholder, Garret G. Van Dien ; Township Clerk, Nathaniel R. Bunce ; 
Assessor, John A. Marinus ; Collector, James Zabriskie ; Township 
Committee, Cornelius J. Bogert, N. R. Bunce, Peter G. Hopper, Albert 
P. Hopper, Thomas Terhune. During the following years, the Van 
Diens, Terhunes, Hoppers, Zabriskies and Ackermans, have principally 
held the offices of the township. 

The township is bounded on the north by Hohokus, south b}- Saddle 
River township, east by Saddle River, and west by Franklin township, 
and is traversed by two railroads, the Erie Railroad, with a station at 
Ridgewood, and the Susquehanna, which has a depot at Midland Park. 

The names that figure most prominently in the early histor}' of 
Ridgewood township were those of Hopper, Van Dien, Van Emburgh, 
Bogert, Zabriskie, Banta. VanDerbeck, VanHouten, DeBaun, and 
Ackerman. The earliest recollected member of the Van Dien family 
was Albert, who resided upon the land afterwards inherited and occu- 
pied by Lawrence Snyder. His wife was a Miss Van Buskirk. Andrew, 
Cornelius and Thomas Van Dien were also early settlers in the town- 
ship. The name Hopper is common also, several branches of which 
family are represented by sketches given below. The Ackerman family, 
are of Holland lineage, and date back to David, one of Ridgewood's 
early settlers, who resided on the homestead afterwards occupied by 
Garret G. Ackerman. Jacob Van Derbeck. husband of Lydia Van 
Bussum, and father of Abram and Harmanis was born in this township 



HISTOUV OF BEKCEX COUNTY 



23'J 



on the land afterwards occupied by Jacob Carlock, whose wife was a 
<f rand-daughter of Mr. Van Derbeck. 

Rev. David Marinus, a native of HoHand, located early in Bergen 
county and married in the Du Bois family. He had three children, 
David, John and Hannah. The Van Kmburghs and Terhunes are of 
Holland ancestry. John, son of Albert Terhune, married Margaret 
Ackerman, and became the father of seven children. A number of 
sketches of various members of this family may be found in different 
parts of this book. 

The Zabriskie family is also one of prominence in the county. 
Albert Zabriskie, the progenitor of the family in America, was of Polish 
descent. He was the greatgrandfather of Abram J. Zabriskie and the 
father of Henry H. who married a Miss Bogert. 

KAK'LY SCHOOLS. 

The scho(jl territory of Ridgewood was formerly embraced in that 
of Franklin township and was divided into three districts, Ridgewood 
Grove, No. 44; Paramus Church, No. 45, and Ridgewood, No. f)i. Ridge- 
wood Grove is located in the southern portion of the township, and in- 
cludes a part of Saddle River. The original school building in this dis- 
trict was constructed of stone, about 1770, and was used until its destruc- 
tion bv a gale of wind in 1S24. It was located near the division line 



)^ 






till ^:- 





between Franklin (at that date i and Saddle River townships, a short 
distance south of the residence of Garret I. Hopper. In 1824 aiiotlur 
school building was erected upon land of Paul Van Derbeck and used 
until I8f>4, when it was succeeded by a brick structure built at the Grove, 
on lands of Henry P. Hoi)per, at which time also the district was incor- 
porated. 

The e.\act <late of the formation of the Paramus Church District is 
not known, but evidentlv a school was established there about the time 



240 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 



<,f the organisation of the Paramus Church which was m 17.0. There 
exists a tradition that in the grant of land for Church purposes by Mrs 
Valleau, provision was made for the maintenance of a school here, and 
enoujrh weight v-as given this tradition to influence the consistory m i8/. 
to give the tru.tees a free lease in perpetuity on the ground since occu- 
pied for school purposes. . , , + i^u.. f^^i 
About the year i785, a small building was erected about hft> feet 
south of the present church edifice, and parents of some of the persons 
still living attended school there. In 1810 the location seems to have 
been changed and a small stone house was erected for school purposes 
near the house lately built for the sexton of the Paramus Churchy A 
Mr Westervelt was one of the early teachers of this school In 18„0 a 
se ond stone building was erected and that gave way m 1845 to a ram. 
edifice near the same ground. It was a low building, badly ventUat d 
furnished with rude benches, and having the door open from the rear 
upon the highway. • t i 
The present building is a commodious structure in keeping with the 

progress of the town. 

Ridgewood District No. 61 is located west of the centre of the town- 
ship and embraces the village of Ridgewood. It was formed April 7 
18 ^7 and formerly included portions of the district of Godwinville, 
Hohokus, and Small Lots. A wooden building two stories high was 
Wit upon the formation of the district. In 1893 the elegant commodi- 
ou High School building was erected, and there are few public sch.u,! 
buildings in the State equal to it. It is of buff brick with brownstone 

trimmings and is an object of interest to the citizens. 

Board of Education 1897-99-D. W. La Fetra, President, H _ U 

Ward Secretary; Rev. E. H. Cleveland. C. P. Crouter, Sylvanus \^ hitc, 

Dr W. L. Vr..om, Dr. J. B. Hopper, Ck.,rge E. Knowlton, J. D. \ an 

Emburgh, Jr. 

MANUFACTUKINCt. 

The first -rist mill in Ridgewood stood cm grounds now occupied 
by "The Peerless Manufacturing Company" and was used as such 
Z hllf a century and until burned in February ff ^^^Z 
that year a new frame building was put up and leased to J. J. Zabnskie 
or a cotton mill, and six years later that too was burned. In 18M. ground 
wL broken for k new frame structure which was leased to Edwin Tay or 
for manufacturing purposes, and this too was destroyed by fire m 1873. 
Durint this year a brick building was erected on these grounds and in 
1S9 leased to "The Peerless Manufacturing Company" for the manu- 
facture of soft rubber goods, such as hose, mats, springs, etc. 

The woolen mills of G. Morrow & Son were established in 1853, on 
the Midland railroad in the south west corner of Ridgewood They were 
lu iffor the manufacture of woolen goods exclusively, and good sets of 
niachinery were put m use. The product of these mills hnds a read, 
market in New York and elsewhere. 




■Of-'i 





HisToKv OF beki;kn county 241 

hic;h\vavs, 

The road territory of the towuship in the earlier, or Revolutionary 
days, gives some interesting- matter worthy of record. The earlist re- 
membered road is the Godwinville thoroughfare, which entered the 
township on the west side, made a detour to the north, and again to the 
east across the township where it intersected the Paramus road. This 
road was associated with the historic days of the Revolution. Another 
road ran southerly through the southwest part of the township having 
its rise at the highway described above, and intersecting the old Wagara 
road near the Passaic River. 

The Paramus road ran from Poinpton to Hohoken and was the 
<dd Goshen and Hoboken stage line. It ran parallel with the east town- 
ship line and curved to the west entering the northeast portion of 
Ridgewood deviating again to the north and then passed into Hohokus. 

BTKIAI. PI.ACl-:s. 

The oldest burial place in the township was given to the consistory 
of the Paramus Church by Peter Fauconier in 17.^0, and it is probable 
that interments took place there soon after, as the church edifice was 
ccmipleted in 1735. Abraham J. Ackerman, born March 8, •1793, died 
October 29, 1801, was buried here. Mary Bogert who died March 24, 
1793 and Maria Ackerman, wife f)f Cornelius Demara, who died Sep- 
tember 18, 1803 are among others whose epitaphs can still be deciphered 
from old memorial slabs in this yard, in wiiich many inscriptions are fast 
going to decay. 

The land embraced in the Valleau cemetery was given to the con- 
sistory af the Dutch Reformed Church of Paramus by Magdalen Valleau, 
daughter of Peter Pauconier, the deed having been made out "' the 
thirteenth day of April, in the twenty-third year of the Reign of our 
Sovereign Lord George the Second, by the grace of God, of Great 
Britain, F^rauce and Ireland, King, Defender of the faith, etc.. Anno 
Domini, One thousand seven hundred and fifty. Between Magdalen 
Valleau of Hackensack in the county of Bergen, and Eastern Division of 
the province of New Jersey, widow, of the one part, and the present 
Elders and Deacons of the Paramus Church of the other ])art witnes- 
seth" etc. 

This cemetery was incor])orated in 1S.=.9. 

The True Reformed cemetery lies adjacent to the church, its age 
being the same as that of the edilice which was erected in IS.S.S. 

Iv'IDGKWOOI). 

The only village in this township is Ridgewood, better known in the 
earlier period of its history as Godwinville named in honor of General 
Godwin, a Revolutionary hero of Paterstm, New Jersey. In 1853 an 
effort was made by Samuel Dayton to develop a hamlet at this i)lace bv 
jjurchasing a ])ortion of the Van Emburg estate and soon thereafter plot- 
ting it for a town. 



HISTOHV OF BEKGEN COUNTY 



The Piterson and Ramapo Railroad »-as surveyed as early as 184(,. 
a„d 2: ffter was cons.ruc.ed. TMs road co.uec.ed -« *= ^ne Ra - 
r„ad at Suffern, and with the Patetson and Hudson Railroad at l-attr 
"n In 1S59 the residents of the vicinity erected the hrs. statton bmld- 

"'^ tC uS" i:;L wh^'htSLod stands helon.ed originally to the 
HoiJer Van Ei-burg and Wes.ervelt families; and for many years .he 
""structure in the ficinity «a, a house o,ned by George Van Em urg^ 
The first buildin- erected after this date was occupied by P. J. Hopper 
drelUo" a°I thou-h its dimensions were limited, room was found 
S whth "^l/aL a sma-ll stoch of goods. Mr. Hopper, thus own.ng the 

''"■"Thrfirst hotel was huilt by John W. Halstead, and in 1*.=. the Epis- 
copaTcon^egation built a church on a 7" i»f "'^ ^jf"' f 
r^fdirrL^Ti-^t-raLtalLrt-irstraigh. line 

'""clreuS°ShuaTw''ho was the first to purchase a por.i<.n o, the 
Wesrell property and lay ,t out .nto -"j'^^.^f-- ,', LrSt" 

'";'-'°!:^:.^:r::rrs"":a^s:'rs' mlutd": et!; the name of 

a struggle of nearly sixjear ^^^^._^^^ 

the station to Ridgewood, Mr. ^^ua^t the n .^^^^^^^ ^^^^ 

^^^^W ie:;"r f '^n::X^Z^^ ^oA short tin., then 
nf r HuVenrneJer was agent for a period of fifteen years. The 

-^r ?r o^e :::::l^S::""-- thro.,h the persi^e. e.^s 
., Ji/d G. Walton, stiU residing ^n the v^^j^g ^ ^ P-^- ^sln 
Citizens Insurance Company, New ^or^' ^'"^^ .^"^^^^^^^^ ,tief clerk, 
r^^^rt^;^::^ - -:r^st^, a-^-^d e«ici.tly 

:;i^^:stti;.isd.th,his^owc^^^^ 

trip^HX^S thL'followTdlor afour years term being succeeded 
AdolphHvrttenm y ^^^^^^ ^^^^^ ^^^ ^^ ^^ ^^^ present occupant, 

Mr R: M. Brfdgman who tooK the office November 1, 1897. There are 
""^The^rs^'ostL awakening in Ridgewood commenced about 1880. 
. nhlisale of property took place comprising the Kidder 

t-tte ' The bous th n belonging to it is now owned and occupied by 
nr J T DeMu,! The property was purchased by several gentlemen 
Mr Pe^er l^kerman coming into possession of a large part of it; and 
^i ;!stute7nd enterprising man did not hesitate to improve and place 

^^^^:^err::-^:ir^?^^^^^^ 



HISTORY OK BKKOHN COUNTY 243 

]>(>rtiiin of Uniuti street from the Reformed Church up to and includiiiL;- 
the h)t of Mr. Ci. Nickerson, was offered to the pastor of the Kelornvd 
Church for S300, and no money required. It was afterwards bouj^ht bv 
I. E. Hutton and disposed of by him." The boom in real estate had come. 
Lots were offered for sale, and throu<rh the efforts of such men as Hut- 
ton, Bogert, Edwards, Crouter. Walton, Godwin, Richardson, Suckert 
and Hopper, streets were laid out, sidewalks built, and improvements 
ifenerally made. The villag'e slowly increased in population and numer- 
ous houses were built until the year 187? when there came a financial 
depression resulting' in the vacating of many homes and a stagnation in 
business of every kind. The name Ciodwinville was not satisfactorv, 
and a change was advocated. 

A number of New Yorkers came to the hamlet about 1S()(), most of 
whom still remain residents. These gentlemen purchased buildings lots 
and soon thereafter the place began to take upon itself a new appear- 
ance, since with their advent came the constructions of beautiful homes, 
the improvement of roads and the general beautifying of the village. It 
was through the influence of these gentlemen that the name was changed 
from Godwinville, to that of Ridgewood. This name was suggested l)v 
Mrs. Cornelius Dayton. 

The following is a sketch of Ridgewood pulilished by C. H. Dunn, 
in 1898. It is given entire and is as follows: 

"In lf)62 Albert Saboroweski, the progenitor of the Zabriskie fami- 
lies of Bergen County, came from Holland and purchased from the 
Indians. '"The New Paramus Patent," a tract of land in this vicinity 
containing nearly 2,000 acres, which was named the Paramus Highlands, 
the earliest settlements being near Paramus Church. Subsequently, 
Newtown was established near the present site of Wortendyke and 
extended to Lydcckcr's Mills, mar Midland P.irk. The name was 
changed to (iodwinville in honor of General Godwin, a Revolutionary 
hero who lived in Paterson. 

The settlement progressed and soon covered all the territi>rv between 
Paramus and Wortendyke, (iodwinville becoming a hamlet four miles in 
length, the centre being near the Methodist Church, yet standing at 
Midland Park. The history of tlu' Paramus is uneventful, except during 
the Revolutionary period, when the armies passed within its limits. 
The early settlers were agriculturists and prosjiered by their well-directed 
labors. About the beginning of the century manufacturing interests 
began to occupy the residents of Newtown and Hoppertown, but it never 
extended from these centers. The distance from the city and tlie ])oor 
roads, prevented much communication with the outer world. The 
Paterson & Ramapo Railroad, the first section of the present ICrie. was 
completed in IH.SO, and instilled new life into the settlement. The Inst 
station was located at Hohokus, and soon after a post-office was estab- 
lished at Godwinville and located a mile west of the village. The mails 
were put off at Hohokus and carrie.l over the intervening country on 
horseback. The manufacturers at Godwinville asked for ,i station nearer 



244 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 



works, but were refused, and it was only after a controversy of three 
years that one was established. There only freight trains stopped, and it 
was two years more before it was made a passenger station, that being 
only a platform. The residents of Godwinville erected a depot m lb5). 
Commutation began a year earlier. 

In i860 several New Yorkers settled in the village, erected homes m 
the vicinity of the depot, and began a commendable regime of landscape 
o-ardenino-. The name Godwinville did not suit these newcomers, who 
Tmmediately agitated a change. An estimable lady Mrs. Corneha 
Dayton, long since deceased, suggested the name of Ridgewood, wh ch 
was adopted. The railroad company was then requested to change the 
nam* of the station, but consumed six years in doing so, and not until 
Uncle Sam had made them drop mail bags marked "Ridgewood for 
a year at this station. A post-ofBce was established in 1865 and the name 
of the station changed in 1866. ^, , ■ + , 

- The newcomers to Ridgewood infused metropolitan methods into 
the place, and in 1876 induced the Legislature to create the township 
of Ridgewood. At the time of the change it included territory atout 
three miles square and had a population of about twelve hundred. The 
u-rowth was slow, being influenced by disturbances in the hnancial wor d, 
but for the past ten years there has been no interruption in its growth. 
"The first postmaster was B. F. Robiason, who did faithful service 
for the munificent sum of ten dollars per year. The present incumbent 
is a Presidential appointee, and the expenses aggregate 32^00 per an- 
num The citizen swere alive to needed improvements, and sidewalks, 
lio-his and good roads were soon added to the natural advantage's 
Rid..ewood township was the pioneer of macadamized roads, and in 18 i. 
the sum of $30,000 was expended on the roads, making them second to 
none in the State. The town progressed steadily until the borough 
craze struck the county in 18^4. A large section of the southern portu.n 
was first cut off, forming the Borough of Glen Rock; then Midland 
Park took a section of the western border. The balance of the town- 
ship was then incorporated to prevent further inroads. 

The first Board of Trustees elected was: M. T. Richards.m, A Cx. 
Hopper, J. W. Edwards, G. M. Ockford and W. J. Fullerton^ Upon 
organization, Mr. Richardson was elected President. Mr. Fullerton 
Treasurer and R. M. Bridgman became Village Clerk. In 18)-, Mr. 
Richardson resigned. Dr. Ockford being elected his successor as Presi- 
dent of the Village, and G. E. Knowlton taking his place as Trustee. 
Since the organization of the Village Board there has been marked im- 
provement in the village from several standpoints, while its growth has 
been steady and material. Physicians in New York and Brooklyn 
learned that the Paramus Highlands was one of the few places within 
fifty miles of New York where malaria was unknown. They recom- 
mended this location to their patients, and they were not the on y ones 
benefited by the healtfulness of this location. Its fame for health-giv- 
ing qualities soon spread, and many who came to spend the summer be- 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 245 

came permanent residents and induced <ithers to locate here. There is 
no spot as near New York that otTers such inducements as Ridg'ewooil 
to prospective residents. Chihlren, particuhirly, acquire a vigor of con- 
stitution that is unusual, and severe e])idemics are unknown. It is 
situated far enouijh from the ocean to escape the dampness incident to 
maritime climates, and the air is at all seasons dr^- and pure. Dr. Wil- 
lard Parker, during his lifetime standing at the head of the medical 
profession of New York city, was in the habit of recommending his 
patients suffering from lung troubles to go to Paramus Plains or High- 
lands as the most favorable spot east of the Mississi])pi River. The 
distance to New York is twenty-one miles and places us within easy 
reach of the IMetropolis. The train service is excellent, seventy trains 
stopping daily at the Ridgewood station. In addition to this, Under- 
cliflF station on the Erie and Midland Park station on the Susquehanna 
and Western are also within the limits of the village, thus furnishing 
every section with frequent and convenient trains." 

Village Trustees for 1899 — James Cornelius, President. Jos. W. 
Edwards, John R. Stevens, C. P. Crouter and Wm. J. FuUerton. H. 
G. Ward, Clerk. Justice of the Peace— Isaac M. Wall. Town Clerk 
— Hudson Campbell. Constables — Peter E. Pulis, Garret G. Ackerman, 
Samuel E. Edsell, Klaus Heerema. Superintendent of Streets — J. R. 
Stevens. Superintendent of the Poor — Rev. E. H. Cleveland. Fire 
De])artnient — Protection Hook and Ladder Co., R. M. Bridgman, Presi- 
dent; H. A. Tice, Vice President; S. F. Lynch, Secretary; W. O. Cruse, 
Recording Secretary; J. Blauvelt Hopper, Treasurer. Trustees — Asa 
Zabriskie, Wm. P. Morgan, J. D. Van Emburgh, Jr. Chief Engineer — 
E. Nickerson. First Assistant Engineer C. Sidney Keyser. Fore- 
man — Daniel Soman. Assistant Foreman — J. A. Bogert, Jr. Head- 
quarters, truck house, Hudson St. Regular meeting, second Tuesday of 
each month. Board of Health — Village Trustees (as above) with 
Health Ofticer, Dr. J. T. DeMund. Freeholders— Theodore V. Terhune, 
Chairman. Collector -Peter (). Terheun. Assessor Thos. Terheun. 
Commissioners of Appeals Edwin Clark, (ieo. E. Knowlton, R. W". 
Terhune. 

"The Ridgewood Club was organized in December, i.s'».i, with the 
following officers and governors: President, Henry S. Patterson; \'ice- 
President, M. T. Richardson ; Treasurer, W. J. Fullerton ; Secretary. 
Paul Walton; Croverning Committee, Joseph F. Carrigan, Robert T. 
Maskins, E. F. Hanks, John A. Edwards. Clarenci' K. Chapman, Lucius 
Smith and Thomas Watlington. 

"Mr. Patterson served as President of the club for two years, and 
was ably succeeded by Robert T. Raskins, who has just completed his sec- 
ond term. 

"Under the administration of these gentlemen, earnestly seconded 
by the Chairman of the (ioverning Committee, Joseph F. Carrigan, the 
original plan of the club has been sucessfullv develo])ed and its ])olicv 
defined; and. in a great measure owing to their efticiint methods and 



246 HISTOKY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

Wise counsel, and it has become one of the leading institutions of the 
villao-e and certainly the center of its social life and activity. 

°l't has been th^ aim of the club from its inception to appeal partic- 
ularly for the interest and support of the ladies, to which tact its growth 
and success are mainly attributable. 

'Two days of each week are set apart as ' Ladies' Days,' and weeklj 
entertainments are given throughout the season which are -"^^^^^ by 
the Entertainment Committee, with a view to meeting the wishes of the 
ladies and securing their regular and general attendance 

"During the winter season afternoon lectures are held in the club 
narlors followed by a 5 o'clock tea. 

' ' The dub is a member of the Whist League, and the devotees ot 
the o-ame have made it one feature of the club life. Several of its mem- 
bersCe taken part in inter-town and inter-state contests with much 

credit to themselves and to the club. . ,, i k v^^^ 

" The following gentlemen are the present of&cers of the club : Pres- 
ident E. LeB. Gardiner; Vice-President, R. M. Wmans; Secretary C. 
TCayler- Treasurer, C. H. Dickson; Governing Committee, Joseph F 
Ca^rSln, RobeTtT. Haskins, Lucius Smith, Henry A. Dunbar, Joseph 
W. Edwards, Henry S. Patterson, H. H. Wehrhane 

"The scenery around Ridgewood is pleasing to the eye, and from 
the hei-hts on the western side of the town is spread out a magnificent 
pLrama which extends for miles in all directions. Other points gn. 
equally charming outlooks. The streets are well shaded and the resi 
dences pleasant, Comfortable and attractive. Bicycling is much indulged 
fn and during pleasant weather out-of-town cyclers throng t^e village 
a«ra"td not^only by the fine roads, but by the excellence of the hotel 

^'T^^. recognised factor in the many social diversions of the 
townspeople. The public schools have long been known as among the 
be! nthf State, the new High School ^eing a model o convenience 
and utility. A corps of teachers, under the able principa ship of Pro 
fessor B. C. Wooster, have shown much ability in the --^-1 -ted for 
them The school is graded from the Kindergarten to the High School. 
The last census shows a gain of sixty per cent, m five years. 

"Th Board of Trustees has done much to bring the vUlage up o 
its present model condition. James Cornelius is the P--lent of the 
■ Villa-e and his associate members on the Board are Joseph W. Edwards, 
W J Fullerton, C. P. Crouter and John R. Stevens. They are gentle- 
men of high character and rare executive ability, • 

"In a work of this limited scope many details must necessarily be 
omitted, but the facts relating to the village herewith presented have 
been -athered from reliable sources and are believed to be accurate . 

The Ridgewood Building and Loan Association was established m 
1885 This institution has had fourteen years of successful business and 
has been the means of making a good many men and women in this part 
of the county happy and independent. 



HISTOKV OK KKKCKN COIINTY 247 

The officers for 1S9S are as follows : W. J. Fullerton. President ; M. 
T. Richardson, Vice-President ; E. Nickerson, Treasurer ; O. W. Read. 
Secretary ; C. Doremus, Counsel ; Directors, W. J. Fullerton, II. S. Pat- 
terson, M. T. Richardson, E. Nickerson, C. P. Crouter, Edwin Clark, P. 
G. Zabriskie, Frank Wilson, B. C. Wooster, O. W. Reed, J. McCiuinness. 

The Co-Operative Building and Loan Association of Ridgewood was 
org-anized February 1, 18<tl, Officers for 1897-'), are : Georg-e R. Young, 
President; Isaac M. Wall, Treasurer; Hudson Campbell, Secretary; 
Directors, Edgar Cromwell, Asa Zabriskie, John J. Storms, William E. 
Maltbie, George M. Ockford, Andrew V. D. Snyder, Jas. A. Hales ; 
Counsel, D. D. Zabriskie. 

SOCniTV DIIv'KCTt>KV AND OFFICEKS FOK 18'»8. 

Fidelity Lodge, No. ii3, F. & A. M., Ridgewood, was organized 
first at Hohokus Station, under and by virtue of a dispensation granted 
by M. W. Robert Rusling, Grand Master, dated October 17, A. L. 5870, 
A. D. 1870 and was set at work by R. W. William E. Pine, D. <;. M., 
on November 7, A. L. 587o. 

Officers for 18<)8:— John R. Stevens, Worshipful Master ; James 
Cornelius, Senior Warden; Leonard N. Taft, Junior Warden; John F. 
Cruse, Treasurer; John F. Weiss, Secretary; Rev. Edward H. Cleveland, 
Chaplain; William W. Holcomb, Senior Deacon; William Morrison, 
Junior Deacon; Harry Terhune, Marshal; Alfred A. Stansfield. S. M. 
of Ceremonies; Isaac M. Wall, J. M. of Ceremonies; George M. Ock- 
ford, Senior Steward; Charles W. Banta, Junior Steward; Charles W. 
Kohler, Tyler; George M. Ockford, Past Master, proxy to the Grand 
Lodge; Henry Hales, Trustee for three years. 

The officers were installed by W. Geo. Morrison. Past Master; John 
P". Cruse, Past Master, acting as Grand Marshal. 

Stated Communications second and fourth Fridays at Masonic Hall, 
corner of Ridgewood and Rock Avenue. 

JK. O. r. A. M. ELECT OFFICEKS. 

On Monday, January 23, 1899, the Junior (_)rder United American 
Mechanics met and api)ointed the following officers for the current year: 

J. D. Van Emburgh, Jr., Councilor; Roger M. Bridgman, Vice- 
Councilor; J. H. Christopher, Past Councilor; C. C. Ackerman, Record- 
ing Secretary; John Knowlton, Assistant Secretary; Harvey Terhune, 
H^inancial Secretary; Chas. Sworn. Conductor; Winfield Terhune, 
Warden; I. M. Wall, Treasurer; Rev. Franklin Mathiews, Chajjlain; 
J. A. Van Emburgh, Orator; T. L. Ackerman, Inside Sentinel; W'm. (i. 
Ackerman, Outside Sentinel; Dr. J. B. Hopper, Daniel Soman. I-'Jls- 
worth Pell, Trustees; J. Irving Bogert, Representative to State Council. 

I.EC.IO.N OF IIO.NOIK, COfNCII. llOO. 

Officers for 1898: -Henry Hales, Commander; J. H. Christopher, 
Treasurer; J. Cruse, Secretary; J. Naugle, Guide; J. H. Zabriskie, Warden; 
J. J. Hopper, Sentry; E. D. Leary, Chaplain. 



248 IIISTOKY OF REKGEN COUNTY ' 

Meets first Wednesday evening of each month in Masonic Hall. 
Companions of other Councils are cordially invited. 

HALL -VND PARK .AS.SOCLATION. 

M. T. Richardson, President; E. A. Walton, Vice President; Paul 
Walton, Secretary and Treasurer; John B. Van Dien, J. F. Carrig-an. 
Maurice Fornachon. C. P. Crouter, Cornelius Dorenius and N. B. Kukuck. 

KNICHTS OK HONOK. 

List of Ofticcrs:— D. J. O'Neill. Past Dictator; J. D. ^'a^ Emburirh. 
Jr. Dictator; C. Snyder Keyser, \'ice Dictator; S. Frank Lynch, Assist- 
ant Dictator; C. M. Keyser, Reporter; F. M. Merritt, Financial Re- 
porter; D. D. Zabriskie. Treasurer; Harvey- G. Ward, Chaplain; Geo. 
E. Miller, Guide; Chas. L. Jackson, Guardian; Stanley G. Cheel, Sen- 
tinel; Dr. Harry S. Williard, Medical Examiner. 

ROYAL AKCAXUM. 

Paramus Valley Council, No. 15'»7, meets first and third Tuesday in 
Jr. O. U. A. M. Hall. 

Officers for 1898:— R. M. Winans, Regent; H. G. White, Vice Re- 
gent; H. A. Brown, Orator; V. A. Ross, Past Regent; W. A. Cheel, 
Secretary; John R. Stevens, Treasurer; Arthur White, Chaplain; A. A. 
Fitzhugh, Guide; A. Frank Halsted, Collector; John B. Hopper, War- 
den; Jacob Ward, Sentry. 

THE kid(;e\vood news. 

The Ridgewood News was first issued in i890 by W. J. Tonkin, as a 
monthly, the mechanical work being done in New York, Mr. Tonkin 
carrying his office in a cigar box. Mr. L. N. Taft took charge the sec- 
ond year, putting in presses and type in a room over Eglin's blacksmith 
shop. About one year later Mr. John A. Ackerman owned the paper for 
a short time, returning it to Mr. Taft in 1892. when he removed it to 
Ridgewood Avenue where it is now located. 

Mr. Frank A. Baxter has made it a nine column quarto. It is the 
official organ of Ridgewood and Orvil Townships and of (ilen Rock and 
Midland Park boroughs, being non-partisan in politics. 

KIDCEWOOD KECOKD. 

The Ridgewood Record has been regularly issued as a weekly for 
upwards of a year, and is Republican in politics. It is edited and owned 
by E. F. Farrell. with W. P. T^Iillar as associate editor. 

CHT'KCH HISTORY. 

The old Reformed Dutch Church of Paramus is one of the land 
marks in which Ridgewood Township is intensely interested. That the 
first church building was erected in 1735, appears to be well established, 
from writings which have been found bearing upon this subject. On the 
flyleaf of the baptismal register is a sentence which translated reads: 
"On the 21st day of April 1735, was the first stone of the church laid."' 
It is also confidently asserted that on January 15. 1735, a committee was 
appointed by the assembled consistory and congregati(.n, to consider and 



HISTOKV OF BEKGEN COUNTY 



249 



make arrangements for the building- of a church and to formuhite rules for 
the promotion of the best interests of the church, Conradus Vanderlieck 
and Johannes Wynkoop being the persons chosen to superintend and con- 
duct these important matters. After adojjting seventeen articles for the 
government of the seating of the members, and for the control nf the 
calling of ministers to their pulpit, they pruceeded to erect the house nf 
worship. 




IV ^ K 




KHKOKMliD CHrKClI- ICII)(;i;\VO()l) 



In those times all the Dutch churches were built of st<mc, and of 
similar style, having an octagonal roof with a steeple in the centre, the 
chairs, which were used instead of pews such as we have, being marked 
(m the back with the owner's name. The law of compensation being 
observed here as in all things else, Peter Fauconicr was allowed two 
seats, one each for himself and wife " for a continual possession for 
themselves and their heirs" — " as an acknowledgement <)[ their donation 



250 HISTORY OF BEKGHN COUNTY 

of the land on which the church is built." This donation appears to 
have been for the church edifice, as Mag-dalen Valleau, in 1750, 
gave a parsonay;v farm of forty acres. A school is now located on these 
grounds, to which the consistory a few years ago gave the trustees a per- 
petual lease, owing to a tradition extant, to the effect that Mrs. Valleau 
embodied a provision in her original grant of land that a school should 
be maintained on this tract. The church is located in the northeastern 
part of the township, adjacent to which lies the True Reformed Ceme- 
terv, the oldest burial-place in the township. In the old church on this 
spot Aaron Burr married the Widow Provost, an incident always recalled 
in connection with this time honored place of worship. 

Manv years prior to the building of the church, however, an organi- 
zation had been effected and the preaching of the Word regularly 
attended by these pious people. As early as 1725, in a letter written by 
Rev. Reinhart Erickson to a brother-in-law, Henricus Coens, at Acquack- 
anonk, he speaks of being "minister at Hackensack, Schraalenburgh, 
and Peremus." From this statement we conclude that "Paramus " at 
that time was a recognized congregation. While Rev. Guillam Bert- 
holf preached to the united societies of Hackensack, Acquackanonk and 
Tappan, from 1(>*:I4 to 1724, it gave the people of this vicinity the oppor- 
tunity to attend his ministrations according to their location; but they 
were progressive, and had determined upon independent action as is 
evidenced by a document in possession of the consistory, dated Decem- 
ber 26, 1730, and signed by Peter Fauconier, in which he pr(miises to 
give land on which to build a church. 

The lirst building erected stood intact until ISOd, with the excep- 
tion of repairs made necessary by the injuries sustained during the 
Revolutionary war, it having been used during that period, for various 
purposes. From 1731 to 1732, Rev. George W. Mancius ministered to 
the two churches of Schraalenburgh and Paramus, but no further evi- 
dence is given of their having another pastor until sixteen years later, 
although much advancement was made during this time, which if acconi- 
l)lished without an appointed leader, shows a wonderful devotedness to 
the cause, as well as an indomitable will to do needed work. Rev. 
Benjamin Van Der Linde received a call from the two churches of Para- 
mus and the Ponds, on August 21, 1748, Rev. Antonius Curtenius of 
Hackensack moderating the call, in which stipulations were made as to 
the davs upon which he was to preach and the number of sermons each 
(lav. This was signed by Elders, Albert Van Dien, Steve Terhuen, Jan 
Romjm, Barent Van Hocjrn, Hendick Van Aele, Roelof Van Houte; 
Deacons, Johannes Stek, Klaes Zabriski, Albert Bogart, Simon Van 
Winkle, Cornelius Van Houte, Steve Bogert. Mr. Van Der Linde is 
described as a man of muscular strength and quickness of movemeht, 
qualities which were needed in those times, when long and tiresome 
trips had to be taken without opportunity for rest or refreshment. They 
could onlv promise sixty pounds a year with parsonage and wood, but 
later on, added enough to make ninety pounds. Although these two 



HISTOKY OF BKKC.KX COITNTY 251 

churches were a tuimber of inik-s apart ho continued to be their pastor 
for forty years, until old age ohlij^ed him to have assistance. Rev. Van 
Der Linde with Elder Stephen Zabriskie, were the representatives of 
this church in 1771 in the convention which met to form a constitution 
of the Reformed Dutcli t'hurch (d' North America. After the 
ortcanization of the church at Sa(l<lle River, which would achl to 
his labors, the ccmsistory called Rew (1. Kuyi)ers, a ne\vl\- licensed 
minister, to assist him. This was in I7.s7, as after .about one \-ear 
and a half Mr. Kuypers was called to the Colleyiate Church in 
New York, leaving- Paramus April 1.^. 17S'». Rev. Van Der [yiude 
died July 8, 178'*. When \vi' consider what liis labor nuist have 
been to attend to the pastoral work oi a tiejd covering an area 
of tweaty-five miles in length and fifteen in breadth, we co:iclude 
that nothing less than an athlete could have borne up under the strain. 
That he was loved and appreciated by his people, is proven l^v the fact 
that in 1800, when the edifice was erected, his bones were removed and 
placed beneath the pulpit. Following Rev. Kuypers, Rev. Isaac Blau- 
velt was called in December, 17')(l, Ponds, not now being connected with 
the Paramus Church, which at this time consisted of (mly the original 
congregation with that of Saddle River. Rev. Blauvelt was a i)opular 
man, and it was for him tlie parsonage was built in 17'll. His ser\-ice 
here, however, was discontinued in the summer of 17'>2, the Rev. William 
P. Kaypers being called in May, i7'».v remaining until May, 17'M>. 
During the three years following they were witliout pastoral care, after 
which they called Rev. Wilhelmus Eltinge, then but twenty-one years 
of age, his pastorate extending over this church and that of Saddle 
River. In 1811, the care of Saddle River, in connection with Paramus 
was disctmtinued, Mr. Eltinge confining his work to the Paramus 
Church, without any formal call until five years later, when a call was 
tendered him from the joint congregations of Paramus and Totowa, 
which he accepted, continuing these relations until IS.^.i. when Paramus 
claimed his sole attention. After a lapse of tifty-one years in cliarge 
of this church, he was obliged on account of the inlirmities of age to 
retire from active service, closing his earthly career in June, 1S.=.1. 

At this time there were four hundred and thirty conuniuiicants in 
the congregation. Rev. Aaron B. Winfield succeeded Rev. Pvltingi'. be- 
ginning his ministry in January lS.=il, which was continued until his 
death in 18.5(>. when he was laid beside his predecessor in the ministers' 
plot in Valleau Cemetery. Rev. Edward Tanjore Corwin succeeded to 
this place in July of the following year, and was in turn succeeded by 
Rev. Isaac De Mund. During the incumbency of Rev. (ioyn Talamge, 
D. D. from 1871 to 187'>, a handsome new parsonage was built and the 
<dd church remodelled, the walls alone remaining of the old structure. 
Kev. J. C. Van Deventer was installed the same year of Dr. Talinage's 
de])arture. 

The present pastor Rev. \V. 11. \'room has been in charge of this 



252 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

church since iSHl. In 1893 the latest improvements were made bv 
putting' in steam heat, pipe organ, etc. 

This congreg-ation now comprises two hundred and eight members 
with a flourishing Sunday school of about one hundred and sevent_T- 
tive scholars. 

The officers are as follows: — Superintendent, S. T. Van Emburgh, 
Assistant Superintendent and Secretary, J. A Van Emburgh; Treasurer, 
A. G. Zabriskie; Librarian. A. H. Vroom, Organist (Juvenile Depart- 
ment ), Mrs. R. A. Post. There are seventeen teachers: Rev. W. H. 
Vroom and Mrs. \'room, Mrs. E. Ackerman, Mrs. Vermilye, Mrs. E. 
Nickerson, Mr. C. V. A. Lacour, Mrs. S. T. Van Emburgh, Mrs. J. A. 
Van Emburgh, Miss F. I. Vroom, Mr. and Mrs. N. G. Hopper, Miss 
Lida Vermilye, Miss Mary Van Dien, Mrs. P. D. Westervelt and Miss 
L. L. Newcomb. 

Rev. W. H. Vroom conducts a Bible class for men. and Mrs. E. 
Ackerman and Mrs. Vermilye each conduct a Bible class for women. 

PKKSKXT f)FFICl-:KS. 

Pastor, Rev. Wm. H. Vroom; Elders, A. A. Blauvelt. \Vm. Hard- 
ing, (i. H. winters and (ieo. Demarcst. 

Deacons, Peter J. Westervelt, Wm. J. Hanham, James W. Mower- 
son and A. G. Zabriskie. 

(i. H. Winters. Treasurer; A. (1. Zabriskie, Clerk; W. H. Ackerman, 
Organist; Cornelius Banta, Sexton. 

I.ADIi:s' AID socnjTY. 
Mrs. W. F. Palmer, President; Mrs. D. S. Hammond, Vice President; 
Mrs. John T. Ackerman, Treasurer; Miss Mary Van Dien, Secretary. 

wom,\n's mission.\kv sociicty. 

Mrs. W. H. Vroom, President; Mrs. E. G. Board, Vice President; 
Mrs. J. A.Van Emburgh, Secretary; Miss Irene Van Emburgh, Treasurer. 

The First Reformed Church of Ridgewood, N. J., was organized by 
a committee from the Classis of Paramus, consisting of Reverends John 
H. Duryea, D. D., John Gaston, D. D., W. H. Clark, D. D., and Elder 
Garret S. Blauvelt at Shuart 's Hall, Rock avenue (since burned ), on May 
24, 1875. The following persons were received by certificate and organ- 
ized as the "First Reformed Church of Ridgewood, N. J.," viz: Edward 
Jardine, from Church of Puritans, New York; Mrs. Mary C. Jardine, 
from Reformed Church, Harlem ; Edward H. Leggett, from Church of 
Puritans, New York ; John M. Knapp, from Second Reformed Church, 
Hackensack, N. J.; Cornelius Z. Berdan, from Reformed Church, Para- 
mus; Margaret R. Ackerman (wife of Cornelius Z. Berdan), Margaret 
A. Van Orden (wife of Henry A. Hopper), Rachel L. Hopper, also 
from Reformed Church, Paramus; Mrs. Esther Earl, from Second Pres- 
byterian Church, Paterson, N. J. Elders, Edwaid Jardine and Cornelius 
Z. Berdan, and Deacon Edward H. Leggett were constituted the first 
Consistory by afore-mentioned committee from Classis of Paramus. 



HISTOKY OK BEKCKN COTXTY 2^3 

At the first regular meeting- of the Consistory, June 17, 1S75. pre- 
sided over by Rev. Govn Talmage, D. 1)., pastor of the Reformed Church 
of Paramus, N. J., a call to become the first pastor of the Church, was 
then formulated, and afterward presented to a student, John Alfred Van 
Neste, graduated in May 1875. who accepted it and was ordained and 
installed July 12, 1875, as the first pastor of the Ridgewood Church. The 
Rev. J. A. Van Neste has remained the only Pastor during the twenty- 
four years since the organization of the Church. 

For two years from the genesis of the church the congregation wor- 
shipped in Shuart's Hall on Rock Avenue. But the place soon became 
too small, the development and future growth depending upon a more 
suitable building, it was resolved on August 7, 1877 to secure a location 
and begin at once the erection of a church. After failures and numerous 
hindrances a building was partially finished upon a lot donated by Mr. 
Frederic Kidder. The basement was first used for divine worship 
November 4, 1877. Since that the grr)wth of the church has been con- 
tinuous. In the meantime the church has been greatly enlarged and 
beautified, improved appliances for work and convenience being C(m- 
stantly added. At date of writing the congregation numbers among 
its adherents a large proportion of the most influential and intelligent 
members of the community. In addition to the church building, a spa- 
cious and attractive parsonage located on Prospect Street, and valued at 
seven thousand dollars, is ownod by the congregation. 

Notwithstanding that within si.x years practically three other church 
organizations, viz. the Baptist, Methodist and the Reformed at Glen 
Rock have been organized from the membership of the Ridgewood 
Reformed Church, the congregation is still as large as before the new en- 
ter prises were brought into existence. The following statistical table 
will illustrate in brief the ])resent status of the Reformed Church family 
of Ridgewood. 

Organized 1875 with nine members. Received in fellowship in 
twenty-three years, 401. Present resident membership 240. Disburse- 
ments during the year 1898 nearly S8000. 

There are numerous Christian organizations within tlie church, all 
prosperous and effective in maintaining and de\elo])ing the general work 
of the church. 

The Rev. Mr. Van Neste is arranging to celebrate the twenty-lifth 
anniversary of the organization of the church, and his installation as 
pastor at one and the same time on May 25, 1900. 

Rev. J. A. Van Neste, Pastor; W. P. Millar. Isaac A. IIoi)])er. J. 
F. Cruse, J. C. Wilkinson, Elders; W. J. Fullerton. .1. II. Christuidur. 
F. A. Ross, R. S. Cortelyou, Deacons. 

In 18()0 a committee was ajjiiointed to act in a matter looking 
toward the founding of an Episcopal ])arish. ])reliminary organi- 
zation of Christ Church Parish being effected in 1804, when a meeting 
had been called at the house of Captain Samuel Dayton on February (> 
of that year. Captain Dayton at this time offered a lot one mile east 



254 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUXTY 

of the dei)()t as a site t\)r a church building, which was accepted on 
February- 17, 

The name <>f the church being- decided upon, Messrs. James Keelv 
and J. T. Walton were elected wardens, and A. J. Cameron, Samuel 
Dayton, E. Rosencrantz, W. H. Hawlett and E. A. Walton, vestrymen. 
After subscriptions to the amount of eighteen hundred dollars had been 
secured, an organ was purchased and placed in the house of B. F. 
Robinson for the use of the choir. March 28, 18t)5, the corner-stone 
was laid by the Bishop of the diocese. Right Rev. W. H. Odenheimer, 
D. D., who held service the same day in Union Hall, Paramus. On 
Sunday, May 13, 1866, the church was opened for divine service, the 
Rev. J. M. Waite officiating. The pews were rented on May 16, several 
persons paying a premium for choice of seats. The cost of the build- 
ing, including furniture and sheds, was a little more than S6()00. Rev. 
Leigh Richmond Dickenson, of Yonkers, N. Y., became the first 
rector, administering holy communion to twelve communicants. On 
May 12, following, a Sunday school was organized with E. A. Walton as 
superintendent and Thomas T. Walton librarian. Twenty-one scholars 
and seven teachers were present. The congregation increased, until 
in March, 1869, the question of enlarging the church was agitated and 
a subscription started to assist in accomplishing the work. This was a 
successful undertaking and the foundation was begun on August 2, 
and on December 19, the church was reopened for service. A beautiful 
chancel, three new windows, one of which was presented by the Sunday 
school. A vestry room, organ room and ten pews were added at this 
time, the whole costing §2600, a part of which was paid by the indi- 
vidual liberality of ^Ir. Christian A. Zabriskie and others. In May, 
1869, Mrs. C. W. Newton organized a Sunday school in her home which 
was continued until 1S70 when a Missitm Snuday school was opened in 
Shuart's Hall in the village of Ridgewood, continuing until September, 
1875, when it was merged into the Parish School. 

In 1873 the vestry resolved to move the church to a central location 
in the village. A lot was tendered by Mr. Robinson and accepted. This, 
with an additi<mal plot, purchased for a sum somewhat exceeding eleven 
hundred dollars became the site of the new church. W^ork began on 
August 4, 1873 and in October the new church was opened for public 
worship. In 1874 the old site was sold for seven hundred and fifty dol- 
lars. Mr. E. A. Walton resigned the treasurership, at Easter of this 
year after having held the office ten years. The present officers are as 
follows: Wardens, E. A. Walton and Henry Hales; Vestrymen, W. E. 
Maltbie, H. C. Lawrence, F. E. Palmer, H. S. Patten, Alexander Bell, S. 
M. Orne, Thomas Watlington, E. LeB. Gardiner, John R. Stevens and 
Lagnel de Berier. The Sunday school has a roll call of about fifty 
pupils. The school is superintended by the Rector, Rev. E. H. Cleveland. 
Mr. Cleveland held his first service as Rector on March 4, 1894. 

The Baptist church is located on Hope Street and Ridgewood Ave- 
nue. 'Phe Society was ort^anized about the year 1890 and named The 




PKTKK ACKKKMAN 



256 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

Emmanuel Baptist. Mr. Frank White, the present and efficient super- 
intendent of the Sabbath School, with a few other gentlemen, were in- 
sti'umental in securing a class for religious worship. The work of these 
members eventually led to the formation of the Church Society, and to 
its present membership of over 109 persons. Elder Shrive was the first 
pastor and under his pastorate the church building was erected, Rev. 
Frank K. Mathiews, a graduate of Brown University and of Crozier 
Seminary, is the present pastor. The Deacons are, Sylvanus White, 
William C. Parker, George E. Ferguson and George Barr. The build- 
ing originally cost S3200. 

The Methodist Episcopal Church of this place was organized in 
189f). It has a flourishing membership under the pastorate of Rev. 
Frank Chadwick. They worship in the old schoolhouse on Prospect 
Street. 

The Unitarians have but recently organized. They hold religious 
services at stated intervals in the Town Hall. The Rev. George Badger 
is the officiating pastor. 

The A. M. E. Zion Church worship under the pastorate of the Rev. 
T. T. B. Reed, A. M., M. D., Pastor. 

Our Lady of Mt. Carmel is under the pastorate of Rev. Father 
Killy, graduate of Seton Hall of the class of 1885. The building was 
dedicated by Bishop Wigger, and the corner stone of the new building 
was laid in 1890. The church has about 400 communicants. 

PETEK ACKEKMAN. 

Peter Ackerman of Ridgewood belongs to the old Dutch family of 
Ackermans, who came from Holland about the year 1610. Mr. Acker- 
man was born ip Paterson, September 16, 1831, and is the son of David 
D., and Martha ( Stevens ) Ackerman. 

When but fifteen years of age he left home to try his fortune in 
new fields, going to New York, where he found employment in the 
business of stair building, but only remained a short time in this work. 
Upon leaving this business he became employed with a firm in this city 
doing trucking, and in 1849, started a line of carts and wagons, doing 
storage business on his own account. In 1885, he formed a partnership 
with his brother who was in the same line of work, and continued under 
the firm name of D. & P. Ackerman. Business increased until it became 
one of the largest of its kind in New York city. 

In 1887 Mr. Ackerman retired with ample means at his command, 
and has since spent his time in the care of his property. He has served 
his state in the Assembly, first in 1885, when he defeated Lydecker by a 
plurality of forty votes, but the following year was defeated by John 
Van Bussum by a majority of seventy-nine, and the next year he defeated 
Van Bussum by a pluralty of seventy-four. In the session of 1885. he 
was chairman of the committee on agriculture and a member of com- 
mittee on incidental expenses and the Soldiers' Home. 



258 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

In 1892 he was nominated by acclamation, for state senator, but was 
defeated by HenrY D. Winton. He has in addition to these, held various 
offices in his county. 

Mr. Ackerman married Elizabeth Hopper, daughter of John Hojjper 
of Fairlawn, in 1856. 

His wife died December •», 1894. 

He isnowPresident of the First National Bank of Ridg'ewood. which 
was opened for business July 24, 1899. 

JOHN B. VAN DIKN. 

The family of this name date their residence in Bergen county to an 
early period of its history. The Van Diens have owned and occupied 
their present homestead for a period of one hundred and thirty years. 
Garret Van Dien, the father of John B., was a well known man of his 
time, who successfully served his generation in various capacities. At 
that time Bergen county comprised a greater scope of territory than it 
does at present, Hudson county then being included within its boundary. 

Mr. Van Dien held prominent offices in his day, those of surveyor 
and township assessor being among the number. He also held the 
responsible office of sheriff for a term of three years. The county was a 
large area to cover, but the population was inconsiderable as compared 
with that of the present Bergen. 

In politics Mr. Van Dien was an old time Whig. His religi<)us 
affiliations connected him with the old Dutch Church. 

The mother of Mr. Van Dien was Jane Demarest of French Hugue- 
not extraction. The children were Albert, Rachel, IVtaria, John B., 
Catherine, Casper and Garret. Of these, Catherine married Jacob Banta 
while Maria became the wife of Abram Carlock. The great grand- 
father of our subject was Harmon Van Dien, the first of the name of 
whom we have any definite account, in this country. Harmon's son, 
Albert, the grandfather of John B., was always a farmer. Mr. Van 
Dien learned the trade of Carpenter becoming a builder of some note. 
He erected the Town Hall, the residences of M. T. Richardson, Peter 
Ackerman, Dr. De Mund, Judge Zabriskie, Isaac Hopper and other build- 
ings. 

His first marriage was to Eliza, daughter of John and Margaret 
Doremus, whose only child was Albert A. After the death of his first 
wife he married Miss Sarah M. Force, daughter of Edward B. and Lydia 
Force. The children of this union are Anna, wife of Jonas Stewart, 
John D., Martha, wife of John Taylor, Edward B., and William who 
married Miss Rachel Doremus. 

Mr. Van Dien was born September 12, 1818, and is now living, more 
than fourscore j-ears of age, a respected and honored citizeu of his county. 

DANIKL W. LA FKTKA. 

Daniel W. La Fetra, member and president of the Board of Educa- 
tion, Ridgewood, is a man of merit and influence in his locality. 




JOHN B. \ AN DIl'.X 



260 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 



He is of rugged, as well as versatile extraction, combining the 
English, Dutch and French blood. His paternal ancestry traces through 
the La Fetra name, by his father William P. La Fetra, born in 1803, 
died in 1873. to Samuel, son of James, son of James, son of Edmond, 
son of Edmond who died in 1687. The La Fetras were French Hugue- 
nots, whose blood mingled with that of the Hollanders through the line 
of Browers to Bogardus, and that of Jansen to Tryn Jansen about 156S. 

Mr. La Fetra's maternal ancestry may be traced through his mother 
Elizabeth T. Woolley, born in 1807, died in 1862, to Daniel Woolley who 
married Elizabeth Wolcott, daughter of Benjamin Wolcott, son of Ben- 
jamin Wolcott, son of Henry Wolcott, born in 1690 and died 17S0, whose 
father was Peter Wolcott. These maternal ancestors were of English 
birth, and all the lines of the three names are traced without a break to 
the dates given. 

Mr. La Fetra was born at Eaton town, Monmouth county, N. J., on 
March 31, 1834. He was educated in the public schools of his native 
county, supplemented by private study at home. At nineteen years of 
age he engaged in teaching, and has always taken an active interest in 
public school work. President of the Board of Education, he has for 
the past twelve years, been influential in educational matters in Ridge- 
wood, and to his efforts the people are largely indebted for the line com- 
modious school building, and a school second to none of its class in the 
state. 

For some years Mr. La Fetra engaged in mercantile pursuits but 
during many past years has filled a responsible position in R. G. Dunn's 
great mercantile agency. 

Although deeply patriotic and devoted to his country's interests, he 
has never sought honor or distinction in military circles. This may be 
to some extent attributed to the fact that he was of Quaker parentage, 
and that his earlier years were spent under the influence and teachings 
of that peace-loving sect. 

Exceedingly domestic in his habits, he is yet elastic enough to lend 
his aid to all that tends to the advancement of the community, socially 
or otherwise. He is a member of the Ridgewood Club, an organization 
for social entertainment and improvement. 

Mr. La' Fetra married Miss Emma Hendrickson of an old Long 
Island family of Dutch descent. 

REV. JOHN A. VAN NESTE. 

The earliest ancestors of Mr. Van Neste came to this country from 
Holland in 1726, and settled near P^latbush on L(mg Island. The father 
of the three brothers who came first to America was Burgomaster of 
the province ot Zeeland in Holland. Abram Van Neste the father of 
our subject is the great grandson of John G., one of these three brothers, 
who subsequently settled in Somerset county, near Somerville, where 
the Rev. John A. was born December 25th 1849. He was educated in 
the public schools of his native county, and was graduated from Rutgers 




DANIlil. \V. LA 1-KTK,\ 



262 HISTOKY OF BKKGEN COUNTY 

College in 1.S72, afterwards taking a course in the Theological Seminary 
at New Brunswick, from which he was graduated in the class of 1875" 
While in college he was considered an athlete, taking an active part in 
all college sports. The much coveted Junior-Oratorship prize, which he 
divided with an other, was secured in competition. Almost imme- 
diately after leaving the Seminary he located at Ridgewood where he 
became the first pastor of the First Reformed church, and he has re- 
mained there ever since. He has seen his congregation grow from a 
mere handful to that of one of the largest and most influential, in 
Bergen county. Although frequently solicited by other congregations, 
he prefers to remain at his present post. 

Mr. Van Neste was married in , 1875 to Miss Ray C. Wikoff, of 
Griggstown, N. J., daughter of the late Peter W. Wikoff, who was a 
highly respected and useful citizen. Of this union was one son, Alfred 
Wikoff born June 20, 1876, died April 1, 1898. He was a sophomore in 
the University of New York at the time of his death, a promising student 
and a young man of exemplary character. He had intended to pursue a 
])rofes8ional career. The death of this son was a sad bereavement. Mr. 
Van Neste's mother was Marie S. French. His sisters are Mrs. Mary T. 
Wilson of Somerset county, the other is Mrs. Emma Sturr of Ridgewood. 

Mr. Van Neste is a charter member of the Junior Order of American 
Mechanics. 

COKNELU'S DOKEMU.S. 

The Doremus family is among the oldest of the settlers of Bergen 
County. The earliest American ancestor of whom we have any definite 
account and who resided in that county is John, born September 1, 1720, 
died July 22, 1784. He owned and occupied the farm which is yet in the 
hands of his descendants. He married Maria Lutkins who was born 
February 25, 1730 and died December 20, 1777. Their two children were 
Marretje and George. John Doremus died from a disease, contracted 
while in the old Sugar House where he was confined six months, after 
being taken prisoner by the Tories during the Revolutionary War. His 
son George succeeded to the home property and married Anna, daugh- 
ter of John and Catherine Berdan, in 1777. Among their children was 
John B., the grandfather of Cornelius, who was born June 26, 170"). 
He married Margaret, daughter of Albert A. and Elizabeth Lydecker 
Westervelt. The old home property came into his possession where he 
continued to reside until 1869, when he retired from active life removing 
to Paterson. His sou, Jacob W.., succeeded to the old homestead, in 
part by purchase and partly by inheritance. He was born December ?<, 
1835, and married October 12, 1858, Sophie, only daughter of Corne- 
lius G. and Susan (Smith) Van Dien. Their son, Cornelius, our sub- 
ject, was born on the old farm at Areola, January 22, 1862. 

Mr. Nelson traces the earlier history of the family back to an 
ancient province in France when the name was spelled De Rhaims. 
They left their native home to find a refuge, as other Huguenots did, in 
Holland, from whence, after many years, they emigrated to America. 



264 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 



Young- Cornelius attended the public schools of Areola until sixteen 
years of age, when he entered Stevens Institute at Hoboken spending 
two years there, after which he began the study of his profession in the 
Law' School of the University of the city of New York from which he 
was graduated in May 1883, with the degree of L. L. B. He was ad- 
mitted to the bar of New York in June of the same year, as Attorney 
and Counsellor-at-Law, and, in November, i884, was made Attorney- 
at-Law to the bar of New Jersey and as Counsellor-at-Law in November 
1889. From that time and ever since he has practiced his profession in 
New York city, and in both Hackensack and Ridgewood, having moved 
to Ridgewood" in 1887. In several important suits which he has tried, 
the Appellate courts have passed upon new points, raised by him, which 
has settled the law in questions involved. Mr. Doremus was coun- 
sel for Bergen County board of Freeholders from 1892 to 1896; for 
Ridgewood township from 1896 to 1897, and has been counsel for a num- 
ber of years for Saddle River township; for three Building and Loan 
Associations, and other organizations, director of Ridgewood Hall and 
Park Association and other corporations. He is a member of Ridge- 
wood Club, Hohokus Golf Club, Royal Arcanum and Knights of Honor. 
He is a member of the First Reformed Church of Ridgewood. In 1895 
he was a candidate for State Senator but was defeated by Hon. W. M. 
Johnson. 

Mr. Doremus was married in December, 1885 to Miss Jennie M. 
Lake daughter of John D. and Sarah Lake. 

CORNELIUS p. CKOUTER. 

Mr. Crouter, the oldest dealer in the meat business in Ridgewood, is 
a native of the county and was born on the old homestead July 25, 1844, 
where he remained until twenty-one years of age. In the meantime his 
education was advanced as rapidly as circumstances would permit and 
the knowledge acquired in this way was put into actual practice as fast 
as opportunities presented themselves. Mr. Crouter's father was a 
farmer of respectability and a man of sound judgment who brought his 
son up to the same avocation as he himself had followed during his 
whole life. Young Crouter, however, was ambitious to master some 
useful trade and carry on business other than farming. He, therefore, 
chose carpentering and served an apprenticeship therein for that pur- 
pose, but after tollowing his trade five years he came to Ridgewood 
where he opened up a meat market in 1874, which business he still con- 
tinues to follow. The financial success attending Mr. Crouter's enter- 
prises, during these twenty-five years, have enabled him to invest largely 
in real estate giving him an additional interest in all that pertains to the 
welfare of the village. 

Mr. Crouter is not a politician, nevertheless he is an active man m 
politics in all that pertains to the best interests of the village. He is at 
present a trustee of the village and also a member of the Board of Edu- 
cation, and takes an interest in social institutions being a member of 
Ridgewood Lodge, K. H. 2723: 




COKNELIUS DOKKMUS 



HISTORY OK BEKGEN COUNTY 2f>7 

At the beginning- of our Civil War, when the call was made for men 
ti) volunteer for nine months, Mr. Crouter responded, enlisting in Com- 
pany D, 22nd Regiment, New Jersey Volunteers, serving his full term of 
enlistment under Colonel A. D. Demarest, in 1861. 

Mr. Crouter's father is now living on the old homestead, a man full 
of years and of honors, nearly eighty years of age. The family are of 
German ancestry. 

Mr. Crouter was married in 18(>5 to Miss Sarah Van Saun, daughter 
of John I. Van Saun of Bergen County. They have two children, Agus- 
tus P., who is in business in New York city, and one daughter. La Venia. 
The family attended the Methodist Church at Ridgewood. In his politi- 
cal affiliations Mr. Crouter is a Republican and has held a number of 
local offices. 

HENKY H.\LES. 

Henry Hales, an Knglishman by birth, was born in the town of 
Yarmouth, in the county of Norfolk, February 3, 1830. He is a son of 
William Hales, a Shoe Dealer, and who later held the office of coal 
meter on the Quay of his native town. Mr. Hales came to America in 
September 1854, and lived in New York until 1868, following the trade 
of interior decorater, at which he had served an apprenticeship of six 
years, prior to coming to the United States. An expert, showing 
taste and originality, he has been successful in this business, which he 
has followed continuously. 

In 1868, he purchased the tract of land where he now lives, near 
Ridgewood, and began farming and gardening. In addition to farming 
he has a collection of fancy poultry, especially Dorkings, 'of which he 
has some fine specimens and is president of the American Dorking 
Club. 

Enthusiastically interested in Ornithology and Ethnology, especi- 
ally the former, he has one of the finest collections of warblers, taking 
special delight in local songsters. His many articles written for 
scientific papers on these subjects are both interesting and instructive. 

While travelling in New Mexico Mr. Hales collected many fine 
pieces of earthern ware, relics of pre-historic dwellers in that land, 
showing a superior knowledge of the art of decorating. Part of this 
collection was on exhibition at the World's Fair. 

Mr. Hales was married in 1850, in Londcm. They have five chil- 
dren, Henry, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this volume; Caro- 
line, who resides at home ; Florence, the widow of Charles D. (iraves, 
late of Middletown ; James who conducts the farm and Alice both 
at home. 

In religion. Mr. Hales is a member of the Episcopal Church. In 
politics, a Republican, he holds a number of local offices. He is a 
member of the American Legion of Honor, and a member of the 
Masonic Order at Kidgewood. 




COKNELIUS P. CKOUTEK 



HISTOKY OK BERGEN COUNTY 2(>') 

HKNKV W. IIAT.KS. 

Henry W. Hales, proprietor of the Ridg-ewood Floral Nursery, is 
the son of Henry Hales, above mentioned. He was educated at St. 
Andrews' School in New York city, and early evinced an inherited taste 
for floriculture. After completing- his studies he was led to travel abroad 
somewhat extensively for the purpose of studying the culture of j)hri's 
and flowers, making England his special field of observation. Much 
valuable information and experience was thus obtained, which has 
proved of great practical benefit in his business. A man of inquii-ing 
mind and close observation he was not content to simply grow and mir- 
ket the plants and flowers as he found them, but by careful study and 
experiment has been able to produce new plants never before placed on 
sale. Among these have been entirely new specimens of coleus grown 
from seed, the first of the kind in this country. He also introduced a 
sweet scented chrysanthemum a few years ago which was quite a noveltv. 

Mr. Hales started his present nursery in 1874, which was the first in 
the vicinity of Ridgewood, beginning on a comparatively small scale, 
but making extensive improvements at the outset, with reference to his 
especial business. The establishment is now a well appointed one from 
which the local trade is supplied with palms, ferns, etc., while cut flowers 
are shipped to the New York market. He is also well known as a writer 
on flowers, and his articles are frequently seen in the horticultural mag- 
azines and papers. 

Mr. Hales is also an inventor, of considerable note, and has not 
imly benefitted the public, but has been handsomely remunerated for his 
work. Among his horticultural inventions is a mole trap that has had 
a very large sale. Owing to a difficulty he experienced in getting 
artistic photographs of plants and flowers, he became interested in 
photog-raphy and for some years has made a thorough study of the art. 
more for pleasure, however, than for profit. Some of his inventions in 
this line have come into general use, among which are a photographic 
camera; photographic level and finder; photographic flash lamp; photo- 
graphic shutter, and also a rollable film camera. In practicing the art 
of photog-raphy as a means of recreation, he has become so proficient 
that his work is very well known, and his pictures have given him the 
reputation of being an expert. The photograph from which the ac- 
companying view of " Floratnere " was made is Mr. Hales' own work. 
As a writer on photographic subjects he has also become well known, 
and his lantern slides and transparencies are said to be exceedingly fine. 

Mr. Hales was at one time a member of the New York Horticul- 
tural Society, and in its palmiest days took a great interest therein. He 
believes in doing everything he undertakes in the best possible manner, 
and his nursery is noted more for the quality of its products than even 
its large amount. He is a Republican in politics and served on the 
Township Committee for some years, and was also Township Treasurer. 
In his religious preference he is an Ejnscopalian. His jdace of residence 




HEXKY W. HALES 



272 HISTOKV OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

on Spring Avenue, is named " Floramere " and is beautifully located in 
close proximity to the greenhouses and nursery. 

DK. GEORGE M OCKFOKD 

Dr. George M. Ockford is a well-known ph^-sician of Ridgewood in 
which village he has resided since 1891. He has a large and lucrative 
practice. He made a good record as a public official, having served the 
village in the capacity of Trustee, Health Officer and President of the 
Village. 

He was born March 2'>, 1845, at London, moving with his family to 
Nothern New York in 1853. His father was Samuel Ockford, a de- 
scendant of the old Saxons of England, and his mother Sarah Marchant a 
descendant of the Huguenots who settled in England on the revocation 
of the Edict of Nantes in 1665. The father went to the front and lost 
his life in the service of the United States in 1864. The doctor spent 
his early days in New York State, becoming a member of the National 
Guard in 1864, and receiving a discharge with the rank of captain in 
1871. In 1872, he was graduated from the Cleveland Homeopathic Hos- 
pital College, and settled in Hackensack. After leaving Hackensack, 
he practiced in Burlington, Vt. and Lexington, Ky., removing from the 
latter place to Ridgewood. During his residence in Kentucky, he was 
elected President of the Southern Homeopathic Association, a society 
embracing all the territory of the United States south of the Ohio river. 
He has been a valuable contributor to medical literature. His papers 
have been published in foreign and American journals, and a work on 
Practice, by him in 1882, reached the dignity of a college text book. 
He is a senior member of the American Institute Homeopathy, an 
active member of the New Jersey State Homeopathic Medical So- 
ciety, and an honorar}^ member of several State Organizations. He has 
been an active member of the Masonic order, being a Past Master in the 
Lodge and Past Commander of ^nights of Templar. He is also a mem- 
ber of the Royal Arcanum and one of the medical examiners of the 
order. 

He was married, at Hackensack, in 1877, to Miss M. E. L. Home, 
a native of Middletown, Conn. They have three children, Florence, 
George and John. The religious home of the family is the Episcopal 
Church. 

DAVID D. ZABKISKIE. 

David D. Zabriskie, the present Judge of the Common Pleas Court of 
Bergen county, is a son of John C. and Jane D. Zabriskie. He was born 
at Paramus, November 27, 1856. After preparing for college at Erasmus 
Hall, Flatbush, Long Island, young Zabriskie entered Rutgers college at 
New Brunswick, N. J., 'and was graduated in the class of 1879. He began 
the study of his profession in the office of Collins & Colvin in Jersey 
City, completing his course in the Law Department of Columbia College. 
New York, in 1881. After being addmitted- to the Bar of New Jersey 
as Attornev-at-Law in November 1882, he continued to practice in his 




7. 






.Q 



274 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

native State until June 1889, when he was admitted as Counsellor. From 
1894-1895 Judg-e Zabriskie was a member of Assembly from Bergen 
county and was counsel for his county from 1896 to 1897. Shortly before 
Governor Grig-g-s retirement from the Governorship, he appointed Mr. 
Zabriskie Judge of the Common Pleas to succeed Judge Van Valen, his 
commission being issued by Governor Voorhees in April 1898. Although 
his official duties call him to Hackensack much of the time, yet he 
maintains his offices both in Jersey City and Ridgewood. 

Judge Zabriskie married Miss Lizzie S. Suydan, in October 1883, and 
resides in Ridgewood. 

ISAAC E. HUTTON. 

Isaac E. Hutton, the well known lumberman, is a native of New 
York and was born in 1853. He started out in his preparation for life 
work with the idea of making architecture his profession, but as the 
years went by he drifted back to his early business in the lumber trade. 
His apprenticeship in this industry was served under his father, Henry 
O. Hutton of Rockland County, N. Y., who was a member of the firm 
of Hutton Brothers. 

Mr. Hutton received his academic education in the Spring Valley 
Academy of New York State. A short time was then spent at Pough- 
keepsie, N. Y., after which he entered Cornell College from which he was 
graduated in 1875, having pursued the scientific course making a speci- 
alty of architecture, which he intended to follow. From a class of one 
hundred and eighty-five members only forty-five took degrees. Among 
his class mates who have risen to positions of prominence are Colonel 
H. W. Sackett, of New York ; Frank Hiscock, Judge of Supreme Court 
of Nev7 York State ; Professor E. L. Nichols, of Cornell College ; George 
H. Fitch, a noted editor, now of San Francisco ; Charles S. Harmon, a 
prominent attorney of Chicago, and J. T. Newman, Trustee of Cornell. 
After finishing his course, Mr. Hutton changed his plans, as many col- 
lege men do, and in 1878 came to Ridgewood, where he went into the 
lumber business. In this he has been highly successful, at present con- 
ducting the most extensive trade in his line in that vicinity, handling all 
kinds of building material. 

Mr. Hutton married Miss Nellie Demarest of the same county. They 
have two children, Robert Le Roy and Clyde Demarest. Mr. Hutton is 
a Republican. 

W. I.. VKOOM, M. D. 

Dr. W. L. Vroom, of Ridgewood, is a descendant of the well known 
family of that name in New Jersey. His father is Rev. William Henry 
Vroom, D. D., of Paramus, son of William and grandson of Henry. 
William was first cousin to Peter D., who was made Governor of New 
Jersey, for five successive terms. Rev. William Henry Vroom, D. D., 
was born February 11, 1840, and was educated in the public schools of 
Somerset county, and afterwards was graduated from Rutger's College 
in 1802. In 1865 he finished his course in the Theological Seminary at 




DAVID D. ZABKISKIE 



27(> HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

New Brunswick and immediately became pastor of a church in Hoboken, 
where he remained two years. From there he removed to Davenport, 
Iowa, where he resided two ^-ears. His next call was to La Cyg-ne, 
Kansas, at which place he org-anized a congregation, becoming its 
pastcjr for live years. He then returned East, taking pastoral charge of 
a church at High Falls, N. Y., remaining with it thirteen years. 
Finallv in 1887. he removed to his present location where he has since 
been pastor of the Reformed church of Paramus. 

He was married in 18(o, to Miss Marietta Gow, of Brooklyn, N. Y., 
and by this union they have three children. Dr. \V. L. being the eldest, 
and who was born in Hoboken April 1, 1866. 

Dr. Vroom received his education in the University of New York, 
and was graduated from the medical department in 1888. He at once 
took up his residence in Ridgewood, where he is enjoying an extensive 
and lucrative practice. He is a member of the Bergen county Medical 
Society, and in November, i898, was elected to the office of Coroner. 

Dr. Vroom was married in 1895, to Miss Blanche Girard Miller, a 
daughter of the late John H. Miller, formerly of Philadelphia. They 
have one child Cecilia. They are members of the Reformed church of 
Paramus. 

PKTEK L. ZAKKI.SKIE. 

Peter L. Zabriskie, a builder and contractor of Ridgewood and 
one of the enterprising voung men of this section, is a son of Ct. J. 
G. and Anna ( Banta ) Zabriskie. His mother was a daughter of Jacob 
Banta. Mr. Zabriskie was born IMay f), 1870, and although a young- 
man, has made a place for himself among the business men of Ridge- 
w^ood. Associated with him in business is his brother G. J. G. Zabris- 
kie, Jr. Another brother John A. is a farmer. His sister Kate became 
the wife of Peter Pulis. Many of the handsome houses in and around 
Ridgewood were erected by Mr. Zabriskie, among the number being 
the residences of O. W. Reed, W. F. Catterfield, R. W. Muns, M. W. 
Whritenour, A. L. D(m and H. A. Brown, with many others, all of 
which are models of our present beautiful architecture. 

Mr. Zabriskie is a member of the Jr. O. U. A. M. In politics he is 
a Republican wath independent tendencies. 

THE TEKHfNE F.^MILV. 

The Terhune family of New Jersey are descended from three broth- 
ers. Huguenots, who migrated from France to Holland, thence to 
America, generations ago, one settling at Hackensack, one at Saddle 
River and a third at Raritan River. The name was originally spelled 
Ter Hune, but as in several other like names the second capital has been 
dropped and a small letter substituted. Albert Terhune the grandfather 
of Theodore was a native of Bergen county. His children were Richard, 
Lavina, who married Mr. John De Gray, Jemima who married Jacob De 
Baun of Saddle River, Isaac, who married Margaret Snyder, Qarret, and 
Andrew who married Margaret Mowcrson. The children of Richard- 




ISAAC K. Hl'TTON 



278 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

who married Margaret Valentine, were James, who died at the ag-e of 
twenty-one years, Lavina who became the wife of Richard Huff, two who 
died in childhood and Theodore Valentine who was the youngest and is 
the only survivor. 

Mr. Terhune was born in New York city, October 22, 1839. He was 
educated in the public schools of New York, and of Berg-en county, N. 
J., afterwards attending a boarding school in Hackensack, kept by Rev. 
John T. Demarest. On leaving school, he learned the trade of carpen- 
ter and for a time followed farming and carpentering. In 1866 he bought 
a tract of ground in Ridgewood where, in 1867, he erected a dwelling, 
and in 1872 a store and embarked in general merchandise. He built the 
tirst house in Ridgewood after the village was laid out in streets. Mr. 
Terhune has been successful in his undertaking having now a large and 
paying business. 

He married first Miss Martha Ann Zabriskie, daughter of John 
Zabriskie of Paramus, Bergen county. Of this union were born three 
children, Richard W., who married Miss Ida Miller and resides in Ridge- 
wood, Theodore Leonard, who married Jennie Bogert and lives in Ridge- 
wood, and Nelson Holmes who died at the age of ten years. After the 
death of his wife, Mr. Terhune married on February 16, 1876, Charlotte 
Augusta Bills, a native of Tioga county, N. Y., and by this marriage 
two children have been born, Margaret Helena and Ethel May. 

Mr. Terhune was a member of the National Guard of Hohokus 
several years previous to the outbreak of the civil war. In 1862 he volun- 
teered as sergeant serving nine months in the army of the Potomac, 
chiefly in the defenses of Washington. He was a member of Company 
B, 22d N. J. Regiment, and is a Republican ; has served nine years as 
Justice of the Peace, when he resigned and is now a chosen Freeholder. 
In religion Mr. Terhune is a Methodist Episcopal. 

ROGER M. BRIDGMAN. 

Roger M. Bridgman, postmaster at Ridgewood, is a son of John 
and Margaret (Hovell) Bridgman and was born in Brooklyn, N. Y., 
October 26, 1852. His mother was born in New York city, while his 
paternal ancestry are English, his father being a native of Stone- 
market, England, from whence he emigrated to America when but 
twelve years of age. After coming here he learned the trade of baker, 
which he followed through life, passing away in 1895. 

Roger M. Bridgman was educated in the public schools of New York 
city, and at an early age became an employee of the Erie Railroad 
Company at Jersey City, remaining in their counting department for a 
continuous period of seventeen years. In 1883 he took up his residence 
in Ridgewood. Mr. Bridgman is a Republican and held the office of 
clerk of the town for eight years, and also clerk of the village after its 
organization. He was appointed postmaster at Ridgewood in October 
1897, and re-appointed January 12, 1898, the term of office of his pre- 
decessor having expired while congress was not in session. 




PHTKK L. ZAHKISKII-; 



280 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

In 1882 Mr. Bridgman married Miss Isabella Brown, daughter of 
Napoleon and Margaret Brown of New York. Of this union, one 
daughter was born, Isabella Marguerite, who was graduated from the 
the Ridgewood High School in the class of 1898, following which she 
has just completed a course of Kindergarten training in New York 
city. Mrs. Bridgman's father. Napoleon Brown, lost his life in our 
late Civil war. 

Mr. Bridgman and his family attend the Reformed Church. He is 
a member of the Junior O. U. A. M., and president of the Fire 
Department. 

HAKKY TEKUNE 

The proprietor of the Rouclere House in Ridgewood, is Mr. Harry 
Terhune, son of Abram Terhune. He was born in Paterson, N. J., 
June 3, 1866, and received a common school education in the town of 
Ridgewood. While still a mere lad he showed a marked talent for jug- 
glery and sleight of hand and at the age of eight years had a local 
reputation as a boy magician. He entered the profession as a means of 
livelihood in 1878, under the name of "Harry Rouclere" doing a short 
act of magic and working a troop of dogs. A few years later he 
branched out as a gymnast and acrobat but sustaining a severe fall 
from the trapeze he abandoned the gymnast line. He then devoted his 
entire time to jugglery and in a few years became the recognized 
American manipulator, appearing with marked success in nearly every 
large city in America. 

He was married to Miss Mildred Searing of Brooklyn and shortly 
after conceived the idea of a mind reading performance. Assisted by 
his wife, their success has been marked in this peculiar line of work 
attracting the attention of the press and public. This baffled the inves- 
tigations of the most ingenious scientists and physicians of this country. 
On May 22, 1891, they startled the scientific world by producing a new 
version of hypnotic mental telegraphy, which they called "Psychon- 
otism," and in it demonstrated that one intelligent person can convey 
ideas to another without visible means of communication. This act 
created a sensation in all parts of the United States and so great was 
their success that they were pictured and headlined on all bills and 
programmes. 

Apart from her many accomplishments Mildred Terhune is en- 
dowed by nature with a marvellous memory. She can not only instantly 
give the day of the week that any date falls on, or the cube or 
square root of any number or numbers but on one occasion memorized 
Longfellow's "Hiawatha" in two readings. This is most remark- 
able from the fact that the poem is in blank verse. 

Mr. Terhune besides his hotel business, is owner and proprietor of 
the "Mildred Novelty Company," (an organization which tours the 
cities every winter,) is manager of the Opera House at Ridgewood, 
and is reaping the rewards of his ingenuity and industry. 



HISTORY OF BHKORN COUNTY 283 

He is a member of the B. P. O. Elks, the Masonic Order, the Royal 
Arcanum and the Heptasophs. 

VAN EMBUKGH & Tl^KIirNK. 

Van Emburgh and Terhune, of Ridgewood, N. J., Funeral Direc- 
tors and Embalmers, is composed of Messrs. J. D. Van Emburgh. Jr., 
and Harvey Terhune, now conducting an extensive business. Mr. Van 
Emburgh is a son of Jacob D. Van Emburgh, a native of Bergen county. 
In his boyhood days he went to school to Judge Van Valen, the editor 
of this work. 

Mr. Terhune the Junior member of the firm is a son of A. D. 
Terhune of Bergen county. He received a special education in the 
U. S. school of Embalming of New York, where he perfected himself 
in the art, thereby giving the firm a special prestige by being prepared 
with all modern appliances in embalming. Both the above gentlemen 
are members of the Jr. O. U. A. M. Mr. Van Emburgh is a member 
of the Knights of Honor and Mr. Terhune is a member of the Royal 
Arcanum. The service of this firm is of the highest order, and their 
territory extends over a wide area, largely in Bergen county. They 
also conduct funerals in and around Brooklyn and New York. 

WILLIAM F. SCHWKINl'UKTH. 

William F. Schweinfurth is a son P. L. Schweinfurth and was born 
February 13, 1859 in west Hoboken. His father who was a native of 
Germany, emigrated to this country about the 3"ear 1848. He was a 
cooper by trade but in 1865 removed to Hudson county where he en- 
gaged in the manufacture of vinegar and also in the sale of mineral 
water. Young Schweinfurth was educated in the common schools of his 
native village, leaving school at the age of fourteen vears. 

After this he was employed in various lloral establishments near 
his home. 

In 18'.»2 he and his brother began business as florists under the firm 
name of F. &. W. Schweinfurth, at Bronx ville, Westchester county, N. 
Y., in which they were successful. Mr. William Schweinfurth, in 1897, 
sold his interest to his brother, afterward purchasing the establishment 
of H. E. Forbes, at Ridgewood. This is a plant of three acres in ex- 
tent , and contains nine hundred square feet of glass. 

Mr. Schweinfurth makes a specialty of roses and cut flowers, selling 
to New York customers almost wholly. His business is prosperous, 
owing to his ])ersonal energy and industry, having started in l.S")2 with- 
out capital. 

He is a Republican and an attendant uf iIk- Kefornu'd Church. 

JOSICru H. CHKISTOPIII'IK. 

One "f the ablest architects and builders of the county, is Mr. Joseph 
H. Christopher of Ridgewood. His father was William, son of Joseph 
Christopher and his mother Rosanna Lake. Joseph H,, was born in the 
village of Allendale, September 17, 18(,3. 



284 HISTOKY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

After receiving a common school education he took a special course 
in scientific drawing in New York, afterward stud^-ing mechanical and 
architectural drawing. 

For some years he worked as a machinist and mechanical engineer, 
in New York, becoming an expert in that line. In 1889 without capital, 
he established himself in Ridgewood, beginning business necessarily in 
a small way. By industry and perseverance he increased his business, 
building many of the handsome residences of Ridgewood, a number of 
these being models of modern architecture. Being a thoroughly equipped 
architect, he is skilled in every department of house building, superin- 
tending the painting and plumbing as carefully as any other part of the 
work. 

The public school building attests the thoroughness of his methods. 
Mr. Christopher remodelled the Almshouse, and erected many other 
prominent structures. He may be truly said to have been the "archi- 
tect of his own fortune." 

Mr. Christopher was married in 1886 to Miss Elizabeth Hopper, 
daughter of Peter G. Hopper, a native of Bergen county. They have 
two children, Rachel and Rowena. 

In politics, a Democrat, he has never aspired to office ; is a member 
of the Legion of Honor and of the Royal Arcanum and a member of the 
Jr. O. U. A. M. He belongs to the Ridgewood Fire Company. Mr. 
Christopher is a member of the Reformed Church of Ridgewood of which 
he has been deacon and has also been treasurer.. 

EDWIN NICKEKSON. 

Edwin Nickerson is a descendant of French and Irish ancestry, who 
for generations back have lived in America. His immediate ancestors 
resided in New York state, his grandfather Zalraon Nickerson, and his 
father George W., who was the eldest of Zalmon's thirteen children 
living in Rockland county, where Edwin was born April 2('th, rS59. 
Mr. Nickerson's mother was Amelia (Johnson) Nickerson, a very pious 
woman and a devoted member of the Reformed church. She died 
January 1898, at the age of sixty-nine years. 

Mr. Nickerson was educated in the common schools of his native 
county, and began business for himself when nineteen years of age, by 
taking charge of a farm, in the vicinity of his home, which he success- 
fully managed for three years. He then came to Ridgewood and for 
sixteen years was associated with I. E. Hutton in the retail lumber 
business. At present he is in the same line of business, with J. Blau- 
velt Hopper and his brother Walter J. Nickerson. He married Miss 
Anna A., daughter of John R. Westervelt. They have three children. 
In their religious relations they are members of the Reformed church. 
Mr. Nickerson is a member of the Junior Order of United American 
Mechanics. 




A. V..B.. SNVDKK 



286 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

GLEN ROCK. 

The borough of Glen Rock was formed in 1894, its area to extend 
from a point near John H. Storm's marble shop, on the Paterson road, 
to a few rods beyond Van Wagoner's Hotel, and from the east side of 
Cherry Lane to Hohokus Brook. Mr. A. V. D. Snyder, David Zabriskie, 
John A. Marinus and a few others were the promoters of the borough 
scheme, and have from the beginning officiated in its government. It is 
a farming community wholly, has one church, a branch of the Reformed 
Church of Ridgewood, but no pastor at present. It comprises one 
school district, a new building for which is now being erected at a cost 
of S5000. 

A. V. D. Snyder is the present Mayor. 

ANDREW V. D. SNYDER. 

Andrew V. D. Snyder, Mayor of Glen Rock, son of John R. and 
Sarah (Van Dien ) Snyder was born March 28, 1856, and is a native of 
Midland Park. F^or four generations the Snyder family have been resi- 
dents of this part of the county. In the family of Mr. Snyder's grand- 
father were the following; Thomas R., who lives at Midland Park; 
Maria, who became the wife of Daniel Ackerman ; Garret R., of 
Midland Park; John R., the father of our subject and Rachel who mar- 
ried David Van Houten. 

Young Snyder, after leaving the common schools, attended the 
Paterson Seminary from which he took his degree, and afterward took a 
special course in the French and German languages. He was employed 
for a short time by A. T. Stewart & Co., of New York, and subse- 
quently by a hardware concern in Paterson. After embarking in the 
butchering business in which he was unsuccessful, losing the result of 
several years labor, he took a position with the Metropolitan Steamship 
Company of New York, where he remained a short time. In 1886, how- 
ever, he began business in Ridgewood as a florist, and has gradually 
built a thriving trade in that line, making a specialty of importing 
bulbs from France and Holland, and also dealing in all kinds of farm 
and garden seeds. Having made extensive improvements in his 
premises, his buildings and equipments are now new, and modern 
throughout. Mr. Snyder is an energetic business man and is self made 
in every respect. He was married in 1875, to Miss Hopper, daughter of 
Garret N. Hopper of Paramus, and by this union they have had four 
children: Christina, and Andrew J., now living, Sadie who died at the 
age of twenty, and Fred who died at the age of ten months. Mr. 
Snyder is a Democrat in politics. He has been a Freeholder and Town 
Clerk of the town of Ridgewood and has served for five years, as a 
member of the Democratic Executive Committee. He is now Mayor of 
the Borough of Glen Rock, also Vice President of the Ridgewood 
Co-operative Building and Loan Association. The family attend the 
Reformed Church. 



HISTORY OF BEKGKN COUNTY 287 

Till-; UOKOUGH OF MIDLAND PAKK. 

The Borough of Midhmd Park was incorjioratcd September (>, IS'M. 

The first Mayor was William B. Morrow; Councilmen: H. A. 
Lawrence, C. A. Tillotson, John Klopman, Marcus Young', Louis Smith; 
Clerk, Thomas Holt; Freeholder, John R. Carlousfh; Collector, E. M. 
Krech; Assessor, Will Holt. 

Present Mayor, M. B. Wilson: Clerk, Thomas Holt; Councilmen: 
Francis H. Mayhew, (Tcorg-e B. Krech, tiarret Klopman, Garret Mul- 
der, John Beattie, John R. Carloug-h; Collector, William R. Morrow; 
Assessor, Will Holt. Board of Health, Thomas Holt, president; Jacob 
Leames, secretary; John Klopman, Henry Deiphauser, John L. Guyre. 

EDWAKD M. KKKCH. 

Edward M. Krech, son of George and Hannah (Glasser) Krech 
was born in Saxemeiningen, Germany, November 17, 1836. Mr. Krech 
had three brothers. Christian was a resident of Hackensack and died 
there in iS89. August lives in Milwaukie. and Adolph is still in Ger- 
many. Edward M. was educated in his native land, coming to the 
United States in 1854. Immediately after his arrival he became em- 
ployed in the cotton mills of David Perry, at what is now Midland Park, 
continuing in that business for four years. The following twenty-six 
years he spent with the Wortendyke Manufacturing Company. This 
Company failed in 1884, when Mr. Krech engaged in business on his 
own account. In 1895 Mr. Krech retired from active life, after a suc- 
cessful business career covering a period of more than forty-two years. 

In politics Mr. Krech is a Democrat. He was the first collector of 
Midland Park, and is chairman of the school board. He is a charter 
member of Wortendyke Lodge, 175, Odd Fellows, which was organized 
twenty-six years ago. In his religinus life, Mr. Krech is a member of 
the Methodist church. 

He was married in 1868 to Miss Theresa Lassman, who is also a 
native of Germany. They have had four children, Rosa, wife of John 
S. Payne, of Wortendyke; George E., married to Jessie, daughter of 
the Rev. J. S. Gilbert, former pastor of the Wortendyke Methodist 
Church; Dora, who died at the age of thirteen years, and Theresa, who 
is at home unmarried. George E., is manager of the agency account 
department of the German American Fire Insurance Company of New 
York. 

JOHN U. I'OS'I". 

John H. Post general merchant and postmaster, of Midland Park, is 
a native of Bergen county born July 22, 1844. His father Henry 1'. 
Post, is also a native of Bergen county, and a son of Peter Post of Hol- 
land ancestry. Mr. I'ost had one brother, Peter, who enlisted in the 
22nd New Jersey volunteers, and died of wounds received in the army. 

Our subject received a common school education, and afterwards 
learned the trade of brick and stone mason, which he followed for a num- 
ber of years. In 1888 he purchased the property where he is n(jw loca- 



288 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

ted, and after improving- it, entered into the retail of general merchan- 
dise, in which industry and honorable business methods have made him 
successful. In 1863 he married Miss Louisa Coe, daug-hter of Abram 
Coe, also of Berg-en county. They have two children, both of whom 
have received a high school education. Thomas, the son, is assistant in 
the store with his father. In politics Mr. Post is a Republican. He has 
been postmaster at Midland Park, for a period of ten years, excepting 
one year, after which he was reinstated. He has also served as town 
committeeman, and as school clerk. Mr. Post and family attend the 
Methodist church. 



CHAPTER XXIII. 
WASHINGTON. 

KAHLY SETTLEMENTS — BOKOLGH KKVKK — FAMILY IHSTOKY — CIVIL LIST — 
WESTWOOD — PASCACK — \VOODCLIFF BOKOUGH — HILLSDALIC TOWN- 
SHIP — PARK KIDGE — MONTVALE — BIOGKAPHICAL. 

The township of Washington was taken from the township of Har- 
rington by an Act of the Legiskiture passed January 30, 1S40, and 
was made to consist of all that territory lying wes' of the Hackensack 
River, which belong'ed to Harrington, at that time. Its area covered 
19,525 acres in extent. It was in this part of the old township at a place 
known as the Overkill Neighborhood, where occurred the surprise and 
slaughter of Col. Baylor's light horse on the night of. October 27, 1778. 
A geographical description of Washington township at the time of its 
formation is as follows: Bounded on the north by Rockland county, N. 
Y., south b\- Midland and Harrington, east by Harrington and west by 
Hohokusand Ridgewood. The New Jersey and New York Railroad runs 
through the township in nearl\' a northerly direction with stations at 
Etna, Westwood, Hillsdale Manor, Woodcliif, Park Ridge and at 
Montvale. 

The borough fever attacked this townsliip in hS'M, and soon after 
each of the above named places, with one or two exceptions, became 
the capital of a borough formed within its precincts. First came the 
formation of the boroughs of Westwood, Woodcliff, Park Ridge, Mont- 
vale and Eastwood leaving Hillsdale for the center of a rather distorted 
area, for the old township. Eastwood finally- returned to the township 
having become tired of borough life. Hillsdale, looking after its own 
interests organized into a township — in 189S leaving "Old Hook" in 
the desert waste to look after its own municipality with Etna for its 
trading post, and the old romantic name of Kinderkamack for its legacy. 

Etna, or Aetna, as it was formerly called, is located in the old town- 
ship of Washington. It was originally known as Kinderkamack, the 
name in accordance with popular tradition being of Indian origin and 
signifying "the place where the cock crowed." The i)lace was the 
scene of some of the more important incidents of the Revolutionary 
period. During the time the American army encamped here, occurred 
the death of Brigadier General Poor, ime of the bravest generals of the 
Revolution. His remains were interred in the old cemetery of the 
Reformed Dutch Church at Hackensack, his funeral obsequies having 
been attended by both Washington and Lafayette. His grave is marked 
by a plain slab bearing the following inscription: "In memory of the 
Hon. Brigadier General Enoch Poor, of the State of New Hampshire, 
who departed this life on the 8th day of September 1780, aged forty- four 
Years." 



290 HISTOKV OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

EARLY SETTLEMENTS. 

The township of Washington in its early history is associated with 
the names of Wortendyke, Blauvelt, Eckerson, Hering-, Deraarest, Hol- 
drum. Storm, Brickell, Hopper, Westervelt, Bogert, Van Eniburg, 
Campbell, Banta, Perry, and others. Many if not all of these names are 
still represented by later generations, a portion of whom have inherited 
the paternal estates. The tradition of the fathers have in a few instan- 
ces been preserved, but with most of these families little of interest is 
remembered prior to the present century. The Wortendykes are among- 
the earliest residents of the township, the progenitor of whom was Jacob, 
who came from Holland at the period prior to the Revolution and settled 
in Harrington township. He had two sons, Rinear and Frederick, both 
of whom located in Washington. Rinear married, and had as descend- 
ants Cornelius, Rinear, Frederick, Albert, and Jacob. The latter was 
married to Elizabeth Campbell, and had children, Rinear and two 
daughters. Frederick, the son of Jacob first mentioned, had sons, Fred- 
erick, Peter and James. 

Albert, the son of the first Rinear, married and had children, — 
David, Abram, Rinear, and a daughter, Jane. Abram had two sons, 
Abram, and Albert A. Frederick F. and Peter Wortendyke each repre- 
sent other branches of the same family. 

The Hopper family are of Holland descent, the earliest one remem- 
bered in VVashington being Abram, who had among his children one 
Jacob. He resided at Kinderkamack, on property recently occupied by 
John Smith, and which was formerly the homestead. Jacob had one 
son, Abram, who settled on ancestral land and had children, — Abram, 
Garret, Isaac, John, James, and Jacob, and one daughter. Jacob located 
upon the farm afterwards occupied by his only son, Richard Hopper, and a 
daughter, Mrs. J. C. Westervelt. Another branch was that of Nicholas 
Hopper, who resides in Hohokus, and had three sons, John, Jacob, and 
Andrew. 

The Brickell family were originally from Rockland County, the first 
member of whom was probably George, who fell in the Revolutionary 
conflict. He had two sons, George and Thomas, the latter of whom 
came to the township of Washington (then Harrington) and pursued the 
weaver's craft. He was united in marriage to Altye, daughter of 
William Bogert, and had twelve children, of whom seven reside in the 
township. The sons were George, John, and David, of whom George 
and David lived in Washington, and John in Newark. Much of the 
land now embraced in the village of Westwood belonged to the family. 

Among the oldest families in the township is that of Bogert, who 
are of Holland ancestry, and the pioneer of whom was Isaac. See spec- 
ial sketch. 

Conrad Storms of Holland descent was probably the first of that 
family to come to the township. His children were Henry and a 
daughter. Henry married Margaret Holdrom, and their children were 
Conrad, Cornelius and two daughters. 



HISTOKV OK BEKGKN COUNTY 291 



Peter Perry was an early resident and ijurchasod a lart^e tract in the 
north east corner of the township. lie had sons, Peter, Johannes and 
Jacob. A. P. Perry. Mayor of Park Kidjre, is a descendant of this 
early settler. 

The Deniarest family in this township descend from Garret who 
located on the mill site but recently occujjied by Robert Yates. His sons 
were Tunis, James, Abram, Samuel and John, all of whom became resi- 
dents of the township. One of his daug-hters became Mrs. John Hopper. 

Another branch of the Demarest family was represented bv two 
brothers John and Abram who settled in the south east part of the town- 
ship but neither left families. Still another member of this family- 
Jacobus Deniarest — was a resident of this township, living- first at Old 
Hook then at Montvale. He had children David, Abram and John and 
two daug-hters. The sons all lived and died in the township. 

The Alyea family, none of whom now live in the township, was 
represented by Jacobus, who was buried in the Old Hook cemeterv dur- 
ing the latter part of the last century. 

The earliest of the Banta family to settle in Washington township 
was John, born October f>ri824, who resided at Pascack. He married 
Margaret Duryea and had children, Henry, John, Jacob, and Agnes. 

The Westervelt family are among the earliest settlers in the town- 
ship. Casparus I. had a son John C. who was married to Agnes Van- 
derbeck, and had children, Casparus I., Sarah and Martyntie. Casparus 
I. married Maria Van Riper and had one son. Captain J. C. Westervelt 
of West wood. 

*"The Blauvelt family are of Holland descent, and associated with 
some of the most stirring events of the Revolutionary period. Among 
a large family of brothers were Jacobus and Cornelius D.. the former of 
whom settled near Mont Vale and had four sons — James, John, David, 
and Tunis — and six daughters. Among these sons his land, embracing a 
tract of two hundred acres, was divided. All but Tunis left descend- 
ants. John I., the son of John, was a resident in the township. Cor- 
nelius D., a soldier of the Revolutionary war, had a son, David C, who 
was the father of James D. and John D. Blauvelt. both residents of 
Washington. 

"At the home of Cornelius D. Blauvelt, whose wife was a member of 
the Hering family, occurred one of the most heartless massacres of the 
Revolution — the surprise and slaughter of a detachment of Col. Bay- 
lor's command. The spot upon which the Blauvelt home was located, 
as described to the historian by one of the descendants of the family, 
was at River Vale, on the west side of the river, on the site of the house 
more recently occupied by L. Cleveland, the original structure having 
long since been demolished. The night was severely cold, and the 
troops were quartered in the barn, the officer in command with some of 
his subordinates having been more comfortably provided for at the 
house. Guards were stationed about the place, who at three successive 

♦From the History of Bereen and Pass.iic Counties. 



292 HISTOKV OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

times reported to the officer the impossibility of longer enduring the 
terrible cold. He remarked to the troops that they must protect them- 
selves as the guards were relieved. A part}- of Hessians surrounded the 
buildings, and at once directed their attention to the barn where most 
of the troops were quartered. The major and surgeon, who were in the 
house, were taken prisoners. The defenseless soldiers found escape 
impossible. They were captured and slaughtered without quarter, and 
their bodies thrown into a neighboring tan-vat; but three escaped by 
fleeing to an adjoining wood and secreting themselves. 

" The Hering family are of Dutch descent, and intimately associ- 
ated with the early history of the county. Four brothers purchased a 
tract of one thousand acres in New York State, the deed bearing date 
172'), and subsequently an additional six hundred in Washington (then 
Harrington) township, upon which three cousins, sons of the original 
settlers, and all named Cornelius, located, each of whom was given a 
tract embracing two hundred acres. One portion of this land was situ- 
ated at Pascack, the descendants of the son who settled here being 
William, John, Cornelius and James. 

One of the four brothers first named was Abram A. F. Hering, 
whose son Cornelius Abram, settled upon the farm afterward occupied 
by Abram C. Hering. The children of Cornelius A. were Ralph, Abram, 
and four daughters. Both sons located upon the family estate. The 
children of Ralph were Cornelius R. and David. David had two sons, 
Ralph D., and David, the former of whom resided in the township. The 
earlier members of this family were identified with many of the Revo- 
lutionery scene which transpired in the township." 

CIVIL LIST. 

The following is the list of freeholders since the organization of 
the township: 

184U-42, Garret I. Demarest; 1341. Thomas Achenbach; 1842-4.\ 1.S45, 
1853, Henry Blauvelt; 1843, 1845-46, 1851, Cornelius R. Harring; 184(i, 
John Achenbach; 1847-4'J, James I. Demarest; 1847-50, Harmon F. Van 
Riper; 1850-51, John P. Duryea; 1852-53, John I. Ackerman; 1852, 
James D. Van Horn; 1854, 1856, Cornelius G. Ackerson; 1854, Henry 
H. Kingsland; 1856-58, Andrew M. Hopper; 1857-59, Benjamin Z. Van 
Emburgh; 1859-61, Peter R. Wortendyke; 1860.62, James L. Ackerman; 
1862-64, Thomas Van Orden; 18()3-64, 1866, 1870, Jacob D. Van Em- 
burgh; 1866, Frederick F. Wortendyke; 1867, Abraham Van Emburgh; 
1867-69, James G. Harring; 1868-69, John Christopher; 1870-72, Nicholas 
B. Ackerman; 1873-75, Thomas Post; 1876-78, B. S. Demarest; 1879, 
Abraham C. Holdrum; 1880-81, Thomas Eckerson; 1889-90, Garret Her- 
ing; 1891-97, Isaac D. Bogert; 1898-99, J. A. Eckerson. 

Township Clerk, 1840-41, Cornelius R. Haring; '42-43-45, Henry G. 
Banta; '46-48, P. M. Holdnm; '49-51, John C. Westervelt; '52-54, '56-58; 
"55, Frederick Wortendyke, Jr.; Frederick P. Van Riper; '59-61, Henry G' 
Hering; ■(>2-63, Jacob J. Storms, '65-67, Garret R. Haring; '68-70, Gar- 



HISTOKV OF BKKGEN COTNTY 2'J3 

ret J, Lydecker: "71-73. John 1*. Wortendyko; '74-7(>, James A. Acker- 
mau; '77-79, John J. Meyers; "80-81, Garret J. Wortendyke; '82 (Garret J. 
Wortendyke; 'S,V84-S5, Schuyler Bauta; '86-87-88; Garret N. Aekennan; 
'89-91, Edward Sarson; '92-99, John H. Ackerman. 

Assessors, 1840-42, (iarret S. Detnarest; 1843-4f., John A. D^marest; 
1847-49, John I. Demarest; 1850-51, James K. Bo-^ert; 1852-54, George 
T. Brickell; 1855-57, John P. Johnson; 1858-60. James G. Herins^; 18(.l- 
()3, Garret F. Hering; l864-6(>, 1873-75. Peter M. Holdron; 1867-(.9, John 
H. Demarest; 1870-72. Louis M. Plauck; 1876-78, F. F. "Wortendyke; 
1879-81. Henry G. Hering-; 1882-83-84. John P. Wortendyke; 1885-86-87, 
John H. Ackerman; 1888, John H. Wortendyke; 1889-90, John H. Wort- 
endyke; 1891-96, John G. H. Knoner: 1897-98. John W. Kinmouth; 1899, 
Nicholas Cleveland. 

Collectors, '40-42, Casparus I. Zabriskie; 43-46, Peter F. Van Kiper; 
47-49, Henry Achenbach; 50-51, John P. Westervelt; 52, Jacob J. Storms, 

53, 55-56, 66-()8, Peter R. Wortendyke; 54, Abraham Bergen; 57-59, 
Abraham Van Emburgh; ()0-62, Cornelius F. Crouter; 63-65, H.-nry (i. 
Hering; 69-71, Albert Z. Ackerman; 72-74, John H. Ackerman; 72-75, 
John H. Ackerman; 75-77, Garret J. Lydecker; 78-81, Jacob M. Myers; 
82-83-84, Peter R. Wortendyke; 85, Isaac D. Bogert; 86-87-88, Andrew 
H. Smith; 89-92, Andrew H. Smith; 93-95. John A. Eckerson; 96-98, 
John Heck; 99, John H. Ackerman. 

Township Committees, 1840-42, John R. Blauvelt; '40-41, David 
Bogert; '40, Cornelius Ackerman; '40-41, James L Demarest; '40-43, '49- 
51, John Flearoboam; '41-43, 45, Herman Van Riper; '42-43, 45, 49-51, 
J. A. L. Demarest; '42-43, 45, John P. Perry; '43, 45-46, Lawrence Van 
Buskirk; '45:47, Garret S. Demarest; '46-48, Peter A. Westervelt. J. A. 
Lozier, Isaac Mabie ; '47-49, Peter Crouter; '48-49, James P. Westervelt ; 
'49-51, Henrv Pullis; '50, Garret C. Ackerman, Cornelius R. Haring; '51. 
J. Z. Van Blarcora, William C. Holdron; '52-53. A. H. Westervelt; '52- 

54, James L. Ackerman, Garret J. Lydecker ; '52. J. H. Van Emburgh ; 
'52-53, James A. Campbell ; '53-54, '76-78, Thomas Van Orden ; '54-56. 
64-66, Albert A. L. Demarest; '54-55, Andrew M. Hopper; '55-56, Benja- 
min S. Demarest; '55-57. (>l-62. Frederick Crouter; '55, James Demarest, 
Jr.; '57-59, Peter J. Banta ; '56-58, 69-71, Henry Z. Ackerman; '56-,S8, 63- 
65, John A. Ackerman; '57-59, H. A. L. Demarest; '58-60, Nicholas B. 
Ackerman; '59-60, John P. Johnson; '59-60, Jacob Z. Van Blarcom ; '60- 
62, Thomas Post; '60-62, 73-75. Anthony C. Tice ; "61-63, John I. Blau- 
velt. David A. Campbell ; '6.3-65. William A. Demarest. Garret J. Hopi)er; 
'64-66, Thomas D. Blanch; '66, Nicholas A. Demarest; '66-68, David 
Tice. F. F. Wortendyke. Jr.; '67-69, Garret F. Hering, Daniel J. Post, 
Jacob H. Van Derbeck ; '(.9. John W. Christie; '70-72, John A. Felter, 
Abram J. Allen. John A. L. Blauvelt. Stephen J. (ioetschius; '72-74, 
David Brickell; '73-75, Richard Van Derbeck; '7.V74, John Messenger; 
'73-75, Abram Si. Van Horn ; '75-77, Garret D. Van Bussf)m, Isaac 
Onderdonk ; '76-78, Samuel B. Demarest, John I). Durie ; '78-80. Abram 
A. Campbell; '78-79, Mercelius Post; '79-81. .\1>ram Gurnee: ■80-81, 



294 HISTOKY OF BEKCfEN COUNTY 

Schuyler Banta ; '81, John Henry Ackerman ; '82, Schuyler Bauta, John 
Henry Ackerman, James Alfred Ackerman ; '83, John Henry Ackerman, 
James Alfred Ackerman, Jacob D. Demarest ; '84, James Alfred Acker- 
man, John J. Myers, J. H. Wortendyke ; '85, John J. Myers, J. H. Wort- 
endyke, Gilbert Bell; '86, Gilbert Bell, J. H. Wortend3-ke, Abram S. 
Van Horn; '87, Gilbert Bell, Abram S. Van Horn, A. J. House; '88, 
Abram S. Van Horn, A. J. House, J. C. Blauvelt ; 'S'), W. D. Ackerman; 
''»0, W. D. Ackerman ; "Jl, Daniel O' Mara, W. D. Ackerman ; '<)2, Daniel 
O 'Mara, John H. Ackerman ; '93, Daniel O'Mara, John H. Ackerson, 
A. B. Van Emburg-h ; '94, John B. Lozier, John H. Ackerson, A. B. Van 
Emburgfh; '95, David L. Lwkwood, John B. Lozier, A. B. Van Emburg-h; 
'96, David L. Lockwood, Abram A. Hopper, John B. Lozier; '97, David 
L. Lockwood, Peter J. Westervelt, Thomas C. Demarest; '98, Daniel 
O'Mara, Peter J. Westervelt, Thomas C. Demarest; '99, John G. H. 
Knoner, Daniel O'Mara, Peter J. Westervelt. 

WEST WOOD. 

Westwood, a beautiful village 21.6 miles from New York on the 
New Jersey and New York Railroad, has a population of about one thou- 
sand persons. The land occupying this site was purchased of John Mar- 
sellus on the 26th of March, 1765, in the fourth year of the reign of 
George HI, and another tract ajdoining, was bought of Jacob Hopper 
April 5, 1780 by Isaac Bogert, of New York, who was the ancestor of 
Isaac D. Bogert, the present mayor of Westwood. Albert Bogert, son 
of Isaac, was a carpenter, and having fallen from the roof of a building 
and broken his leg, his father was induced to move from the cit}' to this 
township, where he purchased in all five hundred acres of land, one tract 
of which nearly covers the site of Westwood. 

David I. Bogert, George T. Brickell and David Brickell were the 
first to cause a survey to be made of the lots for a village at this place. 

Isaac, grandson of Isaac and grandfather of Isaac D. Bogert 
lived here fifty years ago. His son David, the father of Isaac, was 
killed on the Midland railroad at Central Avenue, Hackensack in 1871. 
Mr. Isaac D. Bogert rebuilt the old house in 1852. The old mill just 
below the house was rebuilt in 1823. 

In 1869 Isaac D. Bogert and Z. B. Van Emburgh built the first store 
in the village. It is now one of the leading stores in the county. Z. B. 
Van Emburgh was the grandson of Henry and Mary Voorhis Van Em- 
burgh and son of Albert and Hannah Zabriskie Van Emburgh, and 
brother to H. A. and Nicholas Van Emburgh, all of Washington Town- 
ship. He was the father of Albert Van Emburgh, now of the firm of 
Bogert and Van Emburgh. 

The Westwood Hotel was built by A. B. Bogert at this time and 
was the beginning of the village history of Westwood. In i870 at the 
time of the building of the railroad. Dr. S. J. Zabriskie, now the old- 
est practicing physician in the county located here, at which time there 
were only two or three houses in the place. At present there are three 



HISTORY OK RK1«;HN COUNTY 295 

grocery stores, one hardware store, two churches and two hotels and 
other places of importance. The Bsrough of W'estwood was formed in 
1 894, the first officers of the incorporation being: as follow^: — Isaac D. 
Bogfert, Mayor; W. W. Voorhis, John C. Kent, J. H. Ackcrson, George 
\V. CoUignon, Walter Ray, George W. Youmans, Council; James E. 
Demarest, Clerk. Mr. Bogert was followed by T. G. Brickcll, Mayor, 
who held the office four years. The officers for iS99 are: Isaac D. 
Bogert, Mayor; Dr. S. J. Zabriskie, Walter DeBaun, Walter G. Ray. 
John W. Horn, A. B. Bogert, John J. Blauvelt, Council; Charles D. 
Westervelt, Clerk. 

The Borough of Westwoo(l was formed into one school district at 
the time of its organisation. The school building was erected at a 
cost of four thousand dollars. A Union Chapel was built in the place 
in i878. On August 25, 1886, on Sunday at one o'clock p. m. a fearful 
cyclone tore down the church, and schoolhouse, and damaged other 
buildings. 

CHUKCHES. 

Religious services were for a period held at a public hall in West- 
wood, but a building was erected in 1872 at a cost of $4000, and union 
services regularl}- conducted by clergymen from Closter, Schraalenburgh 
and other villages. This house was destroyed, and rebuilt at a cost of 
S4000, and an elegant school house was also erected. The edifice has 
since that time received important additions, and the church is supported 
by a membership of one hundred and thirteen. It started with twenty-seven 
persons. The Rev. David Talmage, nephew of Dr. DeWitt Talmage, 
formerly of Brooklyn, N. Y., was called to the pastorate of this church 
in 1887, and is still in charge of the congregation. Isaac D. Bogert 
gave the grounds for the church building, and has been one of the elders 
since its organization. 

A Catholic Church, having a limited membership, was established 
twelve or fifteen years ago. It has no resident pastor. 

The borough of Westwood is supplied with excellent cool, clear, 
spring water, for domestic use. Mr. C. S. De Baun first drove a number 
of wells, which, for a scries of years, suj)plied the people through tanks, 
but subsequently an inexhaustable supply of spring water was found, 
which abundantly supplies both the fire de])artment, and the water for 
domestic purposes. 

The Fire Department of Westwood is under the control of one 
capable foreman and thirty-six voluntary assistants, while one marshal 
and constables look after the peace of the borough. 

IS.'\.\C D. Boc.i;i<T, 
Isaac D. Bogert, Mayor of Westwood and leading merchant of tliat 
borough, was born on the old Bogert homestead in Westwood in ls.i4. 
His great great grandfather Isaac Bogert, had children. Jacobus and 
Albert, of whom the first died in the Revolution. Albert inherited the 
estate in Washington township, and his son Isaac married Margaret 




ISAAC D. BOGEKT 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 297 

Durie and had children David and Leah. Hannah Ackerman became the. 
wife of David and the mother of three chiUlren of whom two, Isaac D. 
and Mrs. Z. B. Van.Emburg-h reside in the township, the former on the 
land purchased in 1765. 

Having spent his early life in school, Isaac continued on the farm 
until 1869 when he began a mercantile career, and which he has con- 
tinued from that time having been the head of the firm of Bogert & Van 
Emburgh from the time the business was started. Besides the grocery 
business he was postmaster for twenty years. The firm maintained a 
large trade in lumber and coal also. Aside from his business career, 
Mr. Bogert has been selected by his fellow townsmen at various times to 
represent their interests in official life. He was Freeholder six years 
during a part of which time he was a director of the county board. He 
also filled the office of Collector for Washington Township. He was 
elected the first Mayor of Westwood in 1899. 

In conjunction with Richard Hopper, Abram B. Bogert and others 
he organized the Reformed Church at Westwood in 1887, of which 
Church organization he has filled the office of Elder since that time. 

Mr. Bogert is a member of the G. A. R. fraternity but aside from 
this his relations in life are domestic. He is public spirited, and 
through his kindly aid the village has received great help. In 1894 
he generously donated for public use two acres of valuable ground in 
the center of the borough, for a park, in which are twenty-seven vigor- 
ous sugar trees of his own planting. 

In 1852 Mr. Bogert was married to Miss Anna Van Wagoner, 
daughter of John Van Wagoner of Oradell, Their beautiful home 
constitutes one of the attractions of Westwood. They have no children. 

DR. S. J. ZABKISKIE. 

Dr. S. J. Zabriskie, the oldest physician in Bergen county, belongs 
to the old family of that name, who came to New Jersey in the early 
days of the country. He is a son of John and Elizabeth (Zabriskie) 
Zabriskie, and was born February .'?, i830, and brought up on a farm. 
After a primary education in the common schools, he took an academic 
course, followed by his professional studies in the medical department 
of the University of New York, from which he was graduated in the 
class of 1 856. 

He first located in Lodi and subsequently practiced his profession in 
Saddle River for a few years. In iS70 he removed to Westwood where 
he built up a lucrative business. In addition to his general practice Dr. 
Zabriskie is physician to the Bergen county Almshouse. 

He is a member of the Bergen County Medical Society, member 
of Odd Fellows Westwood Lodge No. 201, is president of Board of 
Health, and has held a number of local offices. In politics the doctor is 
a Democrat. 

He was married in i857, to Miss Sarah L. Moore, daughter of 
Benjamin Moore a native of Bergen county. 



298 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

PASCACK. 

Pascack \Yas the name given to the northern part of the township 
which embraced what are now the villages of Woodcliff. Park Ridge, and 
Montvale. It is a settlement full of tradition and history antedating by 
a century or more, the beginning of the villages, whose existence were 
brought about chiefly by the building of the railroad in 1870. The 
Demarests, the Perrys, the Ackermaus or Eckersons, the Westervelts, 
the Blauvelts, the Herings and others. Garret Ackerson, a native of 
Holland, settled at Old Tappan in Bergen county a long time prior to the 
Revolution. His son John born in 1743, settled on a tract of land at Pas- 
cack. He married Garritje Hogencamp who bore him two children. 
Garret, and Hannah, afterward Mrs. Nicholas Zabriskie. Garret became 
the Major-General of the New Jersey militia and was twice sent to the 
vState Legislature. He had four sons, John, Cornelius, Garret G., and 
James. Hon. John. Ackerson above named not only engaged in farming 
but had a store, a cotton mill and a distillery on his premises. He died 
at Pascack in 1828, ninety-four years of age. 

This probably w^as the beginning of the mercantile history of this 
place. The store now owned by J. H. Ackerman was built in 1871. 
This family trace their descent to Mrs. Elenor Ackerman who came to 
the township with a family of children among whom were David, Garret 
and Johannes. The latter married a daughter of Cornelius Demarest 
and had four children. Garret, Cornelius and two daughters. 

J. H. Ackerman, the present Mayor of Woodcliff, son of Nicholas 
B. Ackerman, comes of this family. The father of J. H. was a promi- 
nent man in the Church and was a merchant of this place for a long 
time. He built the store in 1871 and had his son J. H., for a partner at 
one time. The store is now in the name of J. H. Ackerman & Brothers. 
They have a store at Montvale, also, 

The first schoolhouse of which mention is made in Pascack, was 
built in 1808, near the Reformed Church. It was an unpretentious 
building with an old-fashioned fireplace, and slabs around the room for 
seats. Colonel Garret G. Ackerson of Hackensack, born in 1816, went 
to school there under George Ackenbach. A Mr. Leach taught this 
school in 1820. In 1855 anew building was erected and the present one 
was built at a cost of three thousand dollars. 

Manufacturing at Pascack was begun soon after the Revolution by 
John Campbell who established a Wampum factory conducting an ex- 
tensive business, supplying the Indian agents and traders of the day 
with this commodity. Mr. Campbell had eight children all of whom 
located in the township. The sons of Abraham A., one of these 
children, are John A., James A., David A., and Abrani A., all now 
dead, the youngest dying in 1899 at the age of eighty-seven years. 
Years ago the business was conducted by all these brothers, the pro- 
ducts consisting of pipes, beads, moons, etc.. made from conch shells. 



HISTOKY OK BKKGKN COUNTY 29') 



all kiidwn under the general name id' wampum. Jnhn Jacob Astnr was 
a large patron of this house. 

Friendship Lodge No. 102 F. and A. M. is located at Pascack. It 
was granted a dispensation October 14, A. D. iS()'), and was constituted 
a working lodge on the i7th of February. iS7(). The warrant otlicers 
were Henry C. Neer, W. M., James C. Hering, S. \V'.. (larret K. 
Hering, J. W. 

The inhabitants of Pascack and vicinity desired for many years to 
organize a church in their neighborhof)d, but were prevented from va- 
rious causes. Finally the Saddle River Church, being separated from 
that of Pararaus, offered to join with the people of Pascack, and to 
assist them in building a house of worship. It \va> agreed to ha\e two 
church buildings, one c<insistory, and one congregation, and to hold 
services alternately in the two houses of worship. 

In the year i8i4, Rev. Stephen (ioetschius was called as pastor. 
The building of the church at Pascack was then begun, and was com- 
pleted in one season. In the autumn of the same year (!Si4i it was 
dedicated, the sermon being preached by the pastor. 

On the 2d day of July, i8i4, the committee appointed by the Classis 
of Paramus met according to the order of the Classis, all the members 
John Yury, Joseph Debaun, Jacob Debaun and John Debaun — being 
jiresent. They proceeded to the election of elders and deacons. The 
following persons were chosen elders: John J. Eckerson, John Gamble, 
(ierret Duryea, and John Banta; Deacons, Gerret J. Ackerman, Edward 
Eckerson, Hendrie Storms and John J. Demarest. The church was 
organized with fifty members. Rev. S. Ooetschius continuing pastor of 
the two churches, Saddle River and Pascack, from the year i814 to iS.v^. 

Rev. John Manley was called in the year i835, and continued his 
relations until i853 or i854. About this time the two churches l)ecame 
separate organizations, and the Rev. John Manley remained as pastor 
of the Saddle River Church. Rev. John T. Demarest, D. D., accepted 
a call from the consistory of the church of Pas:a;k. His ])astorate 
extended over a period from 1 854 to iSdT. In the year i8().=. land was 
])urchased and the parsonage erected. 

In the year i867 Rev. J. T. Demarest, D. D., resigned his charge, 
and the following year the Rev. B. A. Bartholf was called to the ])astor- 
ate of the church, where he remained until IsT.v 

During the years 1S7.> and 1874 the church and jparsonage were 
remodeled, at an expense of about four thousand live hundred dollars, 
after which Rev. Alexander McKelvy was stated supply for three months. 

Rev. Edward Lodewick, the present jiastor, accepted a call from tlie 
consistory in the year 1875. 

The present officers of the Church are as follows: Elders H. C. 
Neer, A. J. Ackerman, Isaac Forshay, J. H. Ackerman; Deacons. J. K. 
Mabie, C. Cronk, I. Donaldson, O. J. Ackerman; Sexton, Josejdi Daw- 
son. 



300 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

The old Pascack cemetery, uear the church, is also of great ag-e, 
several of the memorial stones bearing- that date 1745. These are 
engraved in rude fashion, and are mostly in the Dutch language. Those 
erected at a later day bear date 1790, 1796, 1800, 1813, etc. 

The following is the legend upon the tablet erected to the memory 
of one of the most eminent of the sons of Washington township: 

Here rests the remains of Hon. Jacob R. Wortendyke, born in Ber- 
gen County, N. J., November 27, 1818, died at Jersey City, November 7, 
1868. After he had served his own generation, by the will of God he 
fell on sleep, and was laid unto his fathers. 

The old burying-ground connected with the Pascack Church has 
been in use for years, and is still maintained as the place of interment 
for many of the families of the township. Among the inscriptions are 
these : 

In memory of Sarah Peack, wife of Jacobus Demarest, who died 
March 17, 1820, aged 80 years and 8 days. 

The voice of this alarming scene. 

May every heart obey ; 
Nor be the heavenly warning vain 
That calls to watch and pray. 
In memory of Margaret Pulis, wife of Jacob Post, who departed 
this life March 31, 1826, aged 25 years, 3 months, and 22 days. 

In memory of David Wortendyke, who departed this life August 2, 
1827, aged 19 years, 6 months, and 29 days. 

In memory of Peter Cambell, who departed this life September 15, 
1819, age 1 year, i month, and 2 days. 

In memory of Daniel Peck, who died November, 1819, aged 76 years, 
9 months, and 2 days. 

Daniel I. Hering, born November 17, 1775, died January 13. 1815, 
aged 39 years, 7 months, and 29 days. 

In memory of Maria Ackerson, wife of Isaac Debaun, born October 
27, 1730, died April 18, 1817, ag-ed 86 3-ears, 10 months and 12 days. 

The Old Hook cemetery lies in the southeastern portion of the town- 
ship, and is intimately connected with the earlier deaths in the town- 
ship. It has been used by many of the prominent families of Washing- 
ton, and carefully maintained since its incorporation by an act of the 
State Legislatnre. Among the families who "have buried here are 
the Coopers. Alyeas, Bogerts, Hoppers, etc. There are several other 
private burial-places within the township limits. 

Woodcliff Borough was organized in 1894. It has a population of 
about four hundred. The official vote given in November 1898 was 
eighty-five. The first officers of the borough were: S. B. Read, 
Mayor; J. H. Wortendyke, Assessor; William English, Collector; Martin 
J. Meyers, C. A. Felter, F. F. Wortendyke, Garret J. Acuerman, Walter 
Stanton, F. P. Van Riper, Council; Richard Storms, Clerk. Mr. J. H. 
Ackerman was elected Mayor in 1896, and re-elected in March 1899. The 
remaining ofiicers for this year are J. H. Wortendyke, Assessor; A. J. 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 301 

Ackerman, Collector; J. H. Post. C. A. Feltcr. C. A. Lowrie, T. H. 
Tice, Georg-e Mudikingf, Garret Cronk, Council : (t. J. Wortcndyke. 
Clerk. 

HILLSDALE TOWNSHIP. 

This a township within a township, having the village of Hillsdale 
for its central or business location. The village is desirably located on 
the New Jersey and New York Railroad, having its mercantile and 
business interests dating from the building of that road. 

CHURCHES. 

There are two churches at Hillsdale, of which the Methodists were 
first. Religious services were originally conducted under the auspices 
of the Rev. E. M. Garton, and the society was organized in 1875. The 
building lot was donated by D. P. Patterson in 1876, upon which an 
edifice was erected. Services have continued here regularly from the 
time of the organization in both pulpit and Sunday school work. Rev. 
Mr. Thomas was pastor in 1899. 

There is also an Episcopal Church, of which the Rev. Henry M. 
Ladd was rector until 1895. 

There are three schools in the township of Hillsdale, one at the 
village, occupying a two-story four-room building, recently erected. 
Three teachers are employed in this school. Of the first school houses 
in the township, there is no definite record. In 1856 a school house one 
mile west of Hillsdale, on the road from Pascack to Paters(m, was 
erected. Mr. W. W. Banta, a resident of Hillsdale and now a teacher 
in Hackensack, taught there. 

David P. Patterson built the first store in the village about the time 
the railroad was built, or a little before that time. He let it to H. (i. 
Hering, who conducted it for a number of years. Then came John U. 
Voorhis, and one or two others. John F. Winters now owns the prop- 
erty. There are also one or two other places of business in the village 
and one hotel. 

Hillsdale Township was set off in the Spring of 1S9S. This organi- 
zation was effected through the interventitm of (). S. Thrall, J. H. 
Riley, J. F. Winters, David A. Demarest, Herndon Kohrs, A. C. Hold- 
man and others. Election for officers held Tuesday, April 19, l,S9S 
resulted as follows: Arthur J. Stever, Freeholder; Orrin S. Thrall, 
Collector; John A. Storms, Assessor; Sanford Bogert, George H. Sea- 
man, Edward L. Greenin, Town Committee; William W. Banta, Town- 
ship Clerk. 

Officers elected Tuesday, March 14, 1899, are as follows : Freehold- 
er, John H. Riley; Collector, Orrin S. Thrall; Assessor, Cornelius H. 
DeVoe ; Township Committee, George H. Seaman, Sanford Bogert, 
Edmond L. (Jreenin ; Township Clerk, William W. Banta. 

"The Hillsdale Manor," a group of beautiful suburban residences, 
called formerly, Hillsdale Terrace, by F. J. Finlay, its projector, lies 



302 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

within the bounds of the village of Hillsdale. This place contains one 
summer hotel and a number of beautiful residences built by the 
Hillsdale Improvement Company, of which Arthur J. Stever is president. 

PARK RIDGE. 

Park Ridg-e is situated one mile north of Woodcliff, and is the center 
of business interest in that part of the township. Here the Mittag & 
Voider Company have their works, a business that reaches out to every 
country on the globe. In a mercantile way the Gurnee family were 
long identified with Park Ridge. Abram Gurnee, son of Levi, owned 
and operated a store here for twenty years. He was murdered in his 
place of business about the year of the Centennial. A Mr. Rawitzer 
now has the store. G. H. Teimeyer, owner of another store came to 
the village in 1880. The hotel at this place was formerly used by- a Mr. 
Bannister for a private school. It finally passed into the hands of Gil- 
bert Ackerman, who turned it into a hotel. Mr. John Johnson now 
owns the property. 

Manufacturing of bobbins was begun here by A. Wortendyke many 
years ago, but the business has since passed away. Mittag & Volger 
do a large business the world over in the manufacture of carbon paper, 
ribbons, line inks and other supplies for the type-writer trade. They 
first built a factory in 1889, and again 1895. This was burned down 
September 9th, 1897, and rebuilt that same fall. They employ now 
about forty men, and make shipments to New York, Chicago, San Fran- 
cisco, Toronto, London, Paris, Cologne, Bombay and Sidney. 

A good school building in Park Ridge was erected a few years ago, 
in which are employed four teachers. There is also a Congregational 
Church, of recent origin but it is a small congregation and has no pas- 
tor at the present time. 

PARK KIDGE BOKOtlGH. 

This borough was organized in 1895, but originated in the Park 
Ridge Improvement Association instituted in 1889, by W. B. Smith and 
others, for the improvement of that part of old Pascack. Through 
the efforts of that society of public spirited gentlemen, avenues were 
laid out, trees planted, and lights placed at suitable intervals along the 
highways, the public school interests were fostered and cognizance 
taken of every public need. The officers were: W. B. Smith, president. 
Dr. E. (iehl, first vice-president; J. E. Brooks, second vice-president; J 
B. H. Storms, secretary; W. Park, treasurer; J. Freebes, sergeant-at- 
arms. 

As time progressed local interest in g-ood roads, taxes for schools 
and other improvements led to the formation of the borough under 
legislative enactment as a better way for the securing of these neces- 
sities; and accordingly the borough was voted for. May 4, 1894, and the 
first borough meeting held June 2ist, that year, with officers elect as 
follows: Mayor, H. C. Neer; Councilmen: Francis Wheaton, Theodore 
G. Volger, Jacob H. Hall, James A. Heale, James Leach, John J. 




FKANK (). MITTAC. 



304 HISTOKY OF BERGEN COUNTY 



Storms. Election contested and set aside. At new election August 7th 
James H. Weild elected Mayor; Councilmen: James A. Heale, Theodore 
G Volger, Jacob H. Hall, Eugene Gehl, James Leach, John J. Storms. 
Present officers are: Mayor, Andrew P. Perry; Council: Geo. Braus- 
grove Isaac B. Herring, Alonzo J. House, Arthur Lesoil, James S. 
Mittao- John S. Storms; Assessor, Robert A. Libbald ; Collector, 
Geor-"e J. Stark; Commissioner of Appeals, William D. Woodly, Peter 
E Wortendyke, William Denton; Board of Education, William D. 
Woodly, Theodore F. Granger, William H. Romaine; Borough Clerk. 
George Ritter. 

FRANK O. MITTAG. 

Among manufacturers in America, who are known to the com- 
mercial world on both sides of the Atlantic, should be mentioned the 
name of Frank O. Mittag, inventor and manufacturer of Park Ridge, 
N J Mr. Mittag is the son of John C. L. and Caroline (Herms) 
Mittao- who are both natives of Prussia, Germany. Mr. Mittag's 
father'is a landscape gardener, a profession to which the flower-lovmg 
German is so admirably adapted. His mother is a descendant from the 
Herms and Schillings, who in Prussia, for more than a century have 
been noted manufacturers of tobacco and cotton, and also of Chinaware 
Frank O. Mittag was born August 1, 1855, at Marshland, Richmond 
county New York. He has, however, been a resident of Park Ridge 
since 1886. In i889 he began business with Mr. J. H. W. Maclaghan, 
under the firm name of Mittag, Maclaghan & Co., manufacturing type- 
writer carbon papers, transfer papers, stamping inks, numbering machine 
inks copying inks for use in connection with typewriter machines, and 
in fact eVerything in the line of carbon transfer, duplicating and copy- 
ing papers, "ribbons and ink for use on the typewriter machine, dating 
machines, numbering machines, stamping machines, etc. 

A chano-e in the firm was made in 189i when Mr. Maclaghan re- 
tired from the firm, disposing of his interest to Mittag and Volger, the 
firm since then being known as Mittag & Volger. Mr. Maclaghan then 
went to New York city where he has since had the sale of all goods 
manufactured by this firm. . 

Prior to 1899 Mr. Mittag was connected with a house in JNew 
York, which manufactured the same goods he is now making. In fact he 
is the original maker, inventor, and perfector of many of the inks used 
for making typewriter ribbons, carbon papers, etc, for use on the various 
typewriting machines. When the typewriting machine was put on the 
market in 1870 to 75, Mr. Mittag saw that many changes in its con- 
struction were necessary in order to make perfect impressions through 
an inked ribbon, that would be legible, and copy plainly, and also that 
it mi-ht be possible to make duplicate copies, by alternating the carbon 
with^the white paper, making the impressions through the ribbon and 
he various carbons at one and the same time. About 1880 the machines 
had come to a perfected state, and since that date the sale of all sorts 
of typewriter supplies has grown to enormous proportion. 



HISTOKY OK BKKGHN COUNTY 



305 



Carbon paper invented in Eng-land, fifty, or probably sixty years 
ag-o, and still in use there, is made of lamp black and g-rease, a soft and 
smutty production, unsuiled to the uses retpiired in this country. Mr. 
Mittag claims to be the veteran American carbon paper and ribbon 
maker for writing machines, transfer, and pen and i)encil work. 




Under the new lirm, trade so increased, that after a period of five 
years the business had so outgrown the older buildings, as to make it neces- 
sary to erect a new factory and offices. The new structures were placed 
near the railroad stations, and furnished with new and more modern and 
improved machinery. These new buildings were burned September '), 
lcS97, Init were immediately replaced Ijy the present ones which were 




occupied in less than three months after the fire, and ever since that 
time the business has been carried on more extensively than at any time 
preceeding". 

The present office and buildings of the comi)any are sliowii in tin- 
accompanying views. 




THEODOKE C, VOLOEK. 



HISTORY OK BHKGKN COUNTY 307 

KX-MAY()K THICODOK]-: (",. VOI.GEK. 

Ex-mayor Theodore G. Volg-er of Park Ridge is of German origin 
tracing his ancestry back to 1307, and may be said to belong to a family 
of mayors. In 1310, Dietrich Volger was Mayor of the city of Hanover, 
Germany, and more than a century later — in 1420 — Goedecke Volger 
held the same oifice. Following in direct line through a little more 
than three centuries, in 1725, we find Otto Johan Volger, mayor of the 
same important city. 

Ever since 1420 members of this family have represented, uninter- 
ruptedly, the cit}- of Hanover, in the highest offices, such as Senators 
etc. One of the principal streets in Hanover is named "Volger's Way," 
and one of the family is now General-Adjutant to the Ex-CJueen of Han- 
over living in Vienna, Austria. The coat-of-arms of the family is now 
in the Museum of Hanover, being one of the oldest on record. 

Theodore G. Volger was born in Augusta, Georgia, February 2(i, 
18f)7, and is the son of Gustavus G. Volger and Sophie Huneken. 
Having been educated at Detmold and Lemgo, Germany, where he 
received a high school education, he returned to America and began 
business in New York city in the dry goods trade where he remained 
during the year 1886. The following year he engaged in the export of 
cotton, succeeding which came three years' experience in the dry goods 
* business in Charleston, South Carolina. In August 1891, he returned 
North locating at Park Ridge, N. J., where he has since been associated 
with Mr. F. O. Mittag in the manufacture of typewriter supplies. 
Their trade is a large one, goods being shipped in great quantities to all 
parts of the world. 

Mr. Volger is also active in local affairs. In 1S'(4 he was elected 
councilman of Park Ridge borough, serving three years and at the 
close of this term of office was elected Mayor serving one term. He is 
also vice president of the Eureka Building and Loan Association of 
Park Ridge. 

Mr. Volger's military career covered a period of three years, as a 
private in the F'irst Regiment South Carolina Volunteers, from 1888 to 
l.S'U. 

Mr. \'olger married Miss May Marjorii' Smilli. 

WII.I.IAM BKNJAMIN SMITH. 

William Benjamin Smith, a prominent figure in the organization of 
of the Borough of Park Ridge, is a son of Alexander and M ary S. 
( Johnson ) Smith. His paternal grandparents were William an<l ICdnii 
( Etheridge ) Smith; his great grandfathers on the paternal side 1)eing 
Enoch Smith and Samuel Etheridge. His maternal grandi)arenls were 
Benjamin Johnson and Mahala ( Brickhouse ) Johnson. 

Mr. Smith's American ancestors were the settlers of Roanoke Is- 
land, N. C. and back to his great grandparents, all lived and died on 
their own estates in North Carolina and Virginia. Mr. Smith was born 



308 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

on Knott's Island, Currituck county, N. C, September 15. 1841, and was 
educated at Cobb's Preparatory Academy, near Murfreesboro, N. C. 

In 1858 he edited the "Newbern Gazette," but in 18(>0 boug-ht and 
edited the " Tar boro Mercury." Putting aside all business at the call 
to arms on April 17, 1861, he entered the Confederate service in which 
he continued until the close of the Rebellion in 1865, when a surrender 
of his command was made to General Hartranft at Greensboro, N. C, on 
May 1. 

Going back into the puljlishing business in this same year, he be- 
came owner and publisher of "Southern P^ield and Fireside," with 
sundry other periodicals, in connection with a bookstore at Raleigh, 
N. C." 

In January, 18()8, he came North and entered the emplo^-ment of A. 
S. Barnes & Co., of New York, school book publishers, remaining with 
them five years. At the time of leaving their employment Mr. Smith 
was receiving a salary of four thousand two hundred and fifty dollars 
per year, all his living expenses, and three per cent of the firm's annual 
profits. 

In 1873 Mr. Smith organized and incorporated the Authors' Pub- 
lishing Company, succeeded by W. B. Smith & Co., at 27 Bond street. 
New York, where he conducted a regular book publishing business until 
1885. 

He moved to Park Ridge in 18S3, and became the founder of the 
Improvement Association, and this led to the formation of the Borough 
of Park Ridge, then known as " Pascack," where there were at that time 
only one hundred population. Here he accidentally drifted into real 
estate and sold out his publishing business in 1885. 

Mr. Smith, in 1862, at Goldsboro, N. C, married Miss Penelope 
Churchill, by whom he has one child living, a daughter, now a widow, 
and through whom he has one granddaughter. He was married a second 
time in 1878, at Dover, N. J., to Louise Capsadell. 

Mr. Smith held the office of Justice of the Peace at Park Ridge from 
1889 to 1898, but declined a re-election. He is a member of Fidelity 
Lodge, F. A. M., No. 1 13, at Ridgewood, and is also a Royal Arch Mason, 
Council Mason and 32d. He was confirmed in the Episcopal Church but 
is now a Swedenborgian in religion. He still retains on Knotts Island, 
Currituck County, N. C, the old "homestead" where he was born, 
owned by his forefathers, whereon the dwelling was built in 1799, of 
imported bricks. 

MONTVALK. 

The land on which the hamlet of Montvale is located, was originally 
owned by Jacobus Demarest, and was later purchased and buildings 
erected by various parties from time to time. 

Among the early settlers of the upper portion of Bergen county and 
the lower portion of Rockland county, N. Y. were a numlier of Low 
Dutch and German families, who were, while in the Fatherland, either 



HISTOKY OK BEKOEN COrNTY 309 



members of the Lutheran Church or whose sympathies were strons^iy 
enlisted in behalf of this cont^TeyHtion. These families were forme(l 
into a congregation in 1745, under the pastoral care of Rev. II. M. 
Muhlenbergh, D.D., and a house of worshi]) built at Ramapo, N. Y. near 
the State boundary- line. 

The borough of Montvale was organized inlH9(). The lirst officers 
of the borough were as follows : — Jacob Terkuile, Mayor; William I. 
Weller, H. W. Ellsworth, Auguste Avenengo, Fred Steiner, S. S. 
Barie, John W. Allison, Council; Edward Brown, Clerk; J. D. Van 
Riper, Assessor; John B. Herring, Collector. 

The present officers are Garret F. Herring, Mayor; Rasmus J. San- 
dall. Garret Van Houten, John F. Hering, Samuc! Rudlun, Arnold J. 
D. Heins, Council; Jas. D. Van Riper, Assessor; Freeman C. Ackerman, 
Collector; John B. Herring. Clerk; Garret F. Herring, Sidney Genung, 
Justices of the Peace. 

The Hering family are of Holland ancestry. The progenitor of 
this branch was Garret F., who resided at Pascack. He was united in 
marriage to Miss Sarah Campbell, to whom was born one daughter, — 
Rachel. She was married to David Hering, who had one son, — Ralph, 
born February 28, 1809, on the homestead in Washington, foiAierly 
known as Harrington township. He passed the early portion of his life 
on the farm of his grand-father, whom he succeeded as owner and culti- 
vator of the family estate. He was married to Gertrude, daughter of 
Judge John R. Blauvelt, of Old Hook, in the township before men- 
tioned. They had children— Garret R. and Rachel Ann (Mrs. Aaron 
Rider) of Schraalenburgh. The birth of Garret R. occurred February 
2(>, 1831, at Tappan, in Washington township, where his early years 
were passed. His education was acquired first at the academy under 
the management of David I. Cole, and later at Hackensack, when Jacob 
Wortendyke filled the role of instructor. Being desirous of a career of 
independence he engaged in teaching, his earliest field of labor being 
Cumberland county, N. J., where he remained for two years, afterwhich 
he repaired to Bergen county and followed the same vocation. The 
inherited love of agricultural pursuits led him eventually to ad<ipt the 
calling of farmer. He was, in September, 1842, united in marriage to 
Catharine A., daughter of Garret A. Eckerson, of Tappan, to whom 
two children were born,— John and Sarah, the latter of whom becanu- 
Mrs. Charles Fornier, of Hackensack. 

The tastes of Mr. Hering prompted him in 1874 to embark cm the 
restless waters of political life, when he was elected sheriff of Bergen 
county and was re-elected, and serve 1 thre? additional years. B.'ing 
favorably impressed with the wealth of the ores of North Carolina, he 
enK-ajred extensively at one time in mining enterprises. 



CHAPTER XXIV. 
MIDLAND. 

ROADWAYS SCHOOLS — EAKLY SETTLEMENTS— ORGANIZATION — CIVIL LIST 

— ARCOLA — DELFORD — NEW MILFORD — OKADELL — RIVERSIDE BOR- 
OUGH RIVER EDGE AND CHERRY HILL — BURIAL PLACES 

— MAYWOOD — MANUFACTURING — SCHOOLS — OR- 
GANIZATIONS — BIOGRAPHY. 

The township of Midland was formerly a potion of New Barbadoes, 
from which it was set apart in 1871. It has productiveness in the lands, 
and has historic associations of great interest. The army of the Revo- 
lution camfied frequently in this township, and Washington frequently 
honored the early settlers here with his presence. 

Midland has always received close and careful attention to its roads. 
Among the historic highways in this township, that of Paramus and the 
stone Arabia road should be mentioned. Both of those roads were much 
used in former times before the railroads were built. The Paramus road 
extended from Hoboken to New Burgh and Goshen, and doubtless was 
the thoroughfare for the earliest stage line. Man)' taverns were built 
on this road. The Stone Arabia Road, however, was probably the earli- 
est one in the township. This highway began its course at Hackensack 
and following a north easterly, then a northerly direction entered Rock- 
land, N. Y. It ran near the Hackensack River for a distance of several 
miles and was the principal thoroughfare for many years. 

In its educational interests the township has taken high rank. 
Schools were established here long prior to the Revolntion, and in these 
last years, a high degree of scholarship has been maintained. There 
were until recently live school districts in the town, but the formation 
of the three boroughs within its borders leaves only three school dis- 
tricts at the present time. They are the Paramus District, the Areola 
District and the Spring Valley District. The first schoolhouse was 
erected in the Paramus District, which is in the north-western part of 
the township, in the year 172(>. It was a house built of rough stone and 
finished after the old fashion, with slab benches. This house was near 
the residence of Peter Board, but over a hundred years ago, probably 
another house similar in style, was erected to take its place on the west 
side of Paramus road, and this in turn was succeeded by one near the 
mill of David Baldwin. Finally Mr. (iarret A. Hopper erected a frame 
edifice at his own expense, which for a period of eighteen years was the 
schoolhouse of the District. 

The present school district was formed in 1833, The district event- 
ually leased the land owned by Mr. Hopper for a period of twety-five 
years at a nominal cost of one dollar, and the edifice used was erected 
at a cost of three hundred and fifty-six dollars. This was superseded 



HISTORY OK BKKOKN COUNTY 311 



by a new building of modern arohitcclure and furnished with all tho hi lost 
improvements, which cost all told, two tlmusand five hundred dollars. 
Among the many teachers in this district, the name of .Mr. (leorge 
Ackenbach should be mentioned. He taught for forty dollars a month 
and board for his labor. Afterward he became cashier of the Merchants 
Bank of New York for many years, and at the time of his death was 
president of the Bank of Bergen County. 

MIDL.Wl). 

In the History of Bergen and Passaic Counties we find a sketch of 
the early settlement in this town, which we give in full, as follows: 

"Among the oldest families is that of Zabri.-Aie. the jvrogenitor of 
whom was one Albert Saboroweski,t who emigrated to America in the 
Dutch ship "Fox" during the year lf>(>2. He was of Polish descent, and 
was united in marriage to a Miss Van Der Linde, after which he settled 
in Bergen county. His five sons were John, Jacob, (leorge, Henry and 
Christian, one of whom, probably .Jacob, was stolen by the Indians. On 
his recovery the red men gave as an apology for the theft the fact that 
they wished to instruct him in their language, in which he afterwards 
became proficient. As an evidence of their gwod faith they gave his 
father the title to the patent of land known as the "New Paramus 
patent," containing nineteen hundred and seyenty-seven acres. Saboro- 
weski is said to have studied for the ministry in the Lutheran Church, 
but, not being satisfied with his calling, emigrated to America at the 
age of twenty, and became the ancestor of the large family of Zabris- 
kies in Bergen county. Three of the five sons of Albert, aboved named, 
located in the northern portion of Midland township, Jacob, Hendrick 
and Christian, each of \yhom left a numerous descent. The homestead 
of Christian fell by inheritance to C )rnelius. Among the representatives 
of Jacob were Jacob J., Thomas V. B., David, John C. and Abram S. 
Another branch of the family located at .Areola, and were formerly 
from Paramus. The oldest member of this family recalled is John, who 
resided upon the land afterward owned by Stephen Berdan. lie had five 
sons, John, Barney, Albert and (leorge. The death of John Zabriskie 
occurred many years ago, in Saddle River township. The family of 
Zabriskies is not confined to Midland, but largely represented in other 
portions of the county. 

"The pioneer of the Demarest family was David Desinaretz, who 
emigrated from France about the year 1(>7(., and was one of a large 
band of Huguenots who left their native land to escape religious per- 
secution. With him came three sons-David, John, and Samuel. It is 
related of this gentleman that on his arrival he located on Manhattan 
Island, where he purchased the whole of Harlem, but subsecjuently dis- 

t In an old pappr preserved by Hon. Isaac Wortendyke we And llie f.dlowint'; 

•' Albert Zaborneski is Geboren den, 17 January Anno ITcW ICn is Ovcrleeden Den 17 January Anno 
17.=a." 

This either refers to a later Albert Zabriskie, <ir the statement above iriven is incorrect. I'robably 
it refers to one of the descendants of the oriirinal Albert. ' 



312 HISTOKY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

posed of this propert}- and secured two thousand acres in Bergen 
County, extending along the easterly- side of the river from New 
Bridge to a point beyond Old Bridge, and easterly so far as the line of 
the Northern Railroad. The original deed bears date June 8, 1677. 
Many parties claimed the land after Mr. Demarius (as the name was 
later spelled) had acquired possession, and he was obliged to purchase 
no less than four times before he became absolute owner. A grant of 
land was originally made to David Dumarius from the Governor of 
New Jersey, in consideration of his forming a colony, the members 
being all French or Hollanders. He was unable to carry out fully his 
intention, and the grant was withdrawn, but a subsequent grant was 
made to his sons. The decendants of these sons are numerous. John 
located at Old Bridge, now River Edge, and erected a mill upon the 
river, which has long since gone to decay. A. J. Demarest, a represen - 
tative of this branch of the family, is now living at River Edge, as is 
also P. V. B. Demarest. The remaining branches are located in various 
portions of the county. 

" Yost De Baun and his wife, Elizabeth, came about the year 17uO 
from their native Holland, and settled in Bergen County. Very little is 
known of them or their, immediate offspring. It is probable they located 
within the boundaries of the present Midland township. Jacob De 
Baun, a descendant, inherited from Aurt Cooper, before the war of the 
■Revolution, land now occupied by David W. Christie. He had the 
honor of acting as host for three weeks to the General-in-Chief when the 
Federal army were encamped on the hill above the river. Jacob De 
Baun had one son, Peter. 

"The Kipp family made. their advent to the county previous to Ib'*.^. 
and but little 'is known of their early history. John Kipp had sons — 
Isaac, William, John, and Albert — and four daughters. Of this num- 
ber William lived in the township, married, and had children, — James 
B., John W., and a daughter. He died at the residence of his son, John 
W., in 1856. 

"The Copper family are of Holland extraction, the name having 
originally been Kupos, and subsequently Kuypers. Aurt Cooper resided 
in Midland long before the war of the Revolution, at which period he 
was a man of advanced years. He was much annoyed by the depreda- 
tions of Federal soldiers, who made raids upon his granary and carried 
away his cattle. He reported the fact to Vv'ashington, who gave orders 
that the old man should not be further troubled. He resided at River 
Edge, and left four daughters, but no sons. 

"Another member of the family was John Cooper. He had a son, 
Richard, who was the parent of three children, a son and two daughters. 
The latter married with the Van Wagoner family. 

" John Van Wagoner was the first of the family to settle in Mid- 
land. His son Jacob resided at New Milford, and lived upon the farm 
afterward occupied by his son John. 



HISTOKY OF BKKGEX COUNTY 313 



"The Voiirhis family, orisj-inall y s])elled Van Vdorheyson, have 
been since their early advent into Midland larg-ely represented, and 
many branches are still occupvinj^ inherited estates. The piuneer was 
Lucas Voorhis, who resided on the river between New Milford and River 
Edge. He purchased of the Indians property, which was, by will dated 
January 5, 1768, devised to his son Necausie, who lived upon the land 
until his death in his ninetieth year, when his son, Henrv N. Voorhis, 
became owner. He also survived until his ninetieth year, when his 
son, Henry H., became the possessor. Jacob Voorhis removed from 
River Edge to Oradell, and followed milling, having- purchased the 
mill-site there located. He had three sons, — Henry, Albert and Lucas, 
the latter of whom left two sons and three daughters. Albert Voorhis, 
another member, resided at Areola, and had sons and daughters. His 
son George died on the homestead, and left children, Albert and Thomas. 
The Oldis family are of French descent, the first to settle in Mid- 
land having been Garret, who before the Revolutionary war located on 
the homestead later owned by J. R. Oldis. The original dwelling, 
which was a popular house of entertainment during the Revolution, 
was burned by the British and afterwards rebuilt. Among the chil- 
dren of Garret were John, Benjamin, and Garret, all of whom settled in 
Midland, then New Barbadoes. The family is now represented by J. 

^ Oldis and Garret J., a descendent of John. 
. "The Banta family are of Holland extraction, and came to Bergen 
county previous to 1686, John, the earliest to arrive, having owned a 
large tract of land, which he willed to two sons, Cornelius and John. 
Cornelius was father of a son Henry, who had a son Cornelius. His 
children were Henry and two daughters, — Elizabeth and Jane. Henry 
married a Miss Timpson, and had children, — Cornelius and one daugh- 
ter. 

"Albert Bogert came about the year 1680, and acquired a large tract 
of land in the vicinity of Spring Valley. His f(mr sons were David, Cor- 
nelius, James, and John, all of wh<mi located in the township. 

"John Van Buskirkmade his advent in the township as early as 1697, 
and located at Oradell. Among his descendants were John, Luke, and a 
s(m who became a physician. John remained a resident of Midland. 

"An early settler at Oradell was named Valleau. He was of French 
descent and a large landed proprietor, having at one period owned a tract 
nine miles in extent. He resided in a spacious mansion, and <m his death 
left no family. Very little is remembered of his life. 

"Peter Lutkins was one of the pioneers of Paramus, where he pur 
chased land and followed farming. His children were Peter, John, and 
a daughter Anne, the former of whom settled on the homestead, and his 
brother on land adjacent. Washington on one occasion passed the night 
at the Lutkins homestead, and manifested great interest in the children, 
which was long after remembered by them. The descendants, Andrew, 
Peter, Richard, and one sister, Mrs. John Devoe, continued to live in 
Midland. 



314 HI8TOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

"The Pells are of English descent, and were for a succession of years 
ship builders and sea-captains. Captain William Pell represented the 
fifth generation in America, and resided in New Yoi'k city. He was 
Captain of the " Columbus," in the Royal Philippine Company, of Mad- 
rid, Spain. He married into the Bogert family, and during the latter 
portion of his life retired to Midland, where his death occurred in 1S15. 
Among his sons was Casper, who had children, of whom William J., 
resides on the homestead. 

" The Van Diens are Hollanders, Albert having been the first mem- 
ber of the family to arrive. He together with a brother chose a location 
in Saddle River township. Nearly a century ago one of the desendants, 
Harmon by name, married into the Zabriskie family, and made Midland 
his place of residence. Another branch of the family resided in Para- 
mus, among whom were Yost and Casparus. both of whom lived and 
died there. 

"The Hoppers are among the oldest families in Midland, as else- 
where in the county. Three bothers ( one of whom was Garret ) emigra- 
ted from Amsterdam, Holland, and settled, one at Paramus, another in 
Hohokus, on land of the late John J. Zabriskie, and a third at Small 
Lots, on lands of the late Garret Hopper. The Paramus estate was pur- 
chased of the Indians for a quart of whiskey and a pound of tobacco." 

OKt'..\NIZ.\TION. 

Midland became an independent township by an Act of the Legisla- 
ture approved March 7., 1871. The territory was taken from the town- 
ship of New Barbadoes and included all that part which lies west and 
mirth of "Cole's" Will Brook, running from the point where it intersects 
the Lodi to^vnship line on the Paterson turnpike northwesterly and east- 
erly, until it empties into the Hackensack River." 

April 10, 1871, the voters of the township met at Spring Vallev 
Chapel and proceeded viva voce to elect officers of the town, the follow- 
ing being the more important ones. 

1872. — Freeholder, David A. Zabriskie ; Township Clerk, William 
A. Kipp; Assessor, Abrara S. Zabriskie; Collector, Albert J. Bogert : 
Surveyors of Highways, T. V. B. Zabriskie, J.J. Banta ; Township 
Committee, John Chrystal, Peter Ackerman. William J. Pell, John R. 
Oldis. Stephen Voorhis. 

1873. — Freeholder, David A. Zabriskie; Township Clerk, William 
A. Kipp; Assessor, A. S. Zabriskie; Collector, Albert J. Bogert; Sur- 
veyors of Highways, T. V. B. Zabriskie, Albert Berdan ; Township 
Committee, J. R. Oldis, D. D. Baldwin, Abram J. Demarest, John 
Chrystal, J. A. Zabriskie. 

1874.— Freeholder, H. H. Voorhis; Township Clerk, William A. 
Kipp; Assessor, Albert Berdan; Collector, J. C. Zabriskie (Paramus); 
Surveyors of Highways, Isaac A. Voorhis, J. D. Terhune ; Township 
Committee, Abram I. Demarest, D. D. Baldwin. John R. Oldis. Jnhn R. 
Voorhis, John Chrystal. 



HISTOKY 01-- BKKGKN COUNTY .^15 

1875. — Freeholders, H. H. X'norhis; Tdwiishij) Clerk, Lewis Lane; 
Assessor, Albert Berdaii; Collector, J. C. Zabriskie (Paraimisi; Survey- 
ors of Highways, Jasper D. Terhune, Isaac A. Voorhis; Township Com- 
mittee, J. G. Zabriskie, U. R. 15rinkerliolT, L. Hague, John K. Voorhis, 
A. G. Hopper. 

1876.— Freeholder, H. H. X'oi.rliis; Township Clerk, N. G. Hopi)jr; 
Assessor, Albert Berdan; Collector, John C. Zabriskie (Paramusi; Sur- 
veyors. R. W. Cooper, L A. \"oorhis; Township Committee, John G. 
Zabriskie, A. G. Hopper, U. R. Brinkerhoff, L. Hague, J. C. Z.ibriskie 
(Cherry Hill); Justices of Peace, John (L Webb, Wm. J. Pell. 

i877. — Freeholder, H. H. Voorhis: Townshi]) Clerk, IS. (i. Hopper; 
Assessor, John A. Demarest; Collector, Wm. J.Pel.: Surveyors of High- 
ways, Isaac A. \'oorhis, R. W. Cooper; Township Committee, J. C. 
Zabriskie (Cherry Hill), D. R. Brinkerhoff, L. Hague, A. G. Hopper, 
J. G. Zabriskie. 

1878.— Freeholder, H, H. \"oorhis: Township Clerk, N. G. Hopi)er; 
Assessor, J. A. Demarest; Collector, Wm. J. Pell; Surveyors of High- 
ways, Thos. Gardner, Jr., R. W. Cooinr; Township Committee, J. C. 
Zabriskie, John G. Zabriskie, I). R. Brinkerhoff, A. G. Ho])per. Leopold 
Hague. 

1S79. — Freeholder, J. C. Zabriskie (Paramus); Townshij) Clerk, X. 
(t. Hopper; Assessor, Jacob (i. Zabriskie; C(dlector, Wm. J. Pell; Sur- 
veyors of Highways, R. W. Cooper, Thomas Gardaer, Jr.; Township 
Committee, J. C. Zabriskie,. J. G. Zabriskie, Peter V. B. Demarest. 

1880. — Freeholder, J. C. Zabriskie (Cherry Hill); Township C^lerk, 
X. G. Hopper; Assessor, Jacob (i. Zabriskie; Collector, Wm. J. Pell; 
Surveyor of Highways, Stephen Voorhis, Thomas (iardner. Jr.; Town- 
ship Committee, J. G. Zabriskie, P. V. B. Demarest, Henry C. Herring, 

1881.— Freeholder, J. C. Zabriskie (Paramusi; Townshij) Clerk, 
Wm. A. Kipp; Assessor, Jacob G. Zabriskie; Collector, Wm. J, Pell: 
Surveyors of Highways, Stephen Voorhis, Thomas Gardner, Jr.; Town- 
ship Committee, Henry C. Herring; John G. Zabriskie, Garret II, 
Zabriskie; Justice of Peace. John G, Webb. 

1882. — Freeholder, John C. Zabriskie; Townshi]) Clerk. John II. 
Blair; Assessor, W. J. Pell; Collector, John W. Van Buskirk; Township 
Ctmimittce. John R. Oldis, Henry C. Herring, Cornelius Anderson. 

188.^^. Freeholder, John C. Zabriskie; Townshi]) Clerk, John H. 
Blair, C. H. Storms elected Clerk in July; .Assessor, John C. Van Saun, 
Collector, John W. Van Buskirk; Townshij) Committee, John R. Oldis. 
H. C. Herring, Cornelius Anderson. 

1884.— Freeholder. John C. Zabriskie: Townshi]) Clerk. C. H. 
Storms; Assessor, John C. Van Saun; Collector, John W. Van lUiskirk; 
Township Committee, John R. Oldis, II. C. Herring. Cornelius Anderson. 

1885. -Freeholder, John C. Zabriskie; T<)wnshi]) Clerk, C. H. 
Storms; Assessor, John C. Van Saun; Collector, J. W. Van Buskirk; 
Township Committee. J. R. Oldis, II, W. Winters, Cornelius .Xnderson. 



316 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

1,S8(). — Freeholder, John C. Zabriskie; Township Clerk, C. H. 
Storms; Assessor, John Van Saun; Collector, J. W. Van Buskirk; Town- 
ship Committee, H. W. Winters, J. R. Oklis, L. Hague. 

1887. — Freeholder, John G. Zabriskie; Township Clerk, C. J. Van 
Saun; Assessor, John C. Van Saun; Collector, J. W. Van Buskirk; 
Township Committee, H. W. Winters, L. Hague, R. J. Oldis. 

1888. — Freeholder, C. J. Van Saun; Assessor, John C. Van Saun; 
Collector, J. W. Van Buskirk; Township Committee, H. W. Winters, L. 
Hague, J. R. Oldis. 

188'). — Freeholder, Henry Van Buskirk; Township Clerk, J. Edgar 
Waite; Assessor, N. G. Hopper; Collector, P. V. B. Demarest; Town- 
ship Committee, James Taplin, Casper T. Zabriskie, J. R. Oldis. 

i8'J0. — Freeholder, Henry Van Buskirk; Township Clerk, J. Edgar 
Waite; Assessor, N. G. Hopper; Collector, Peter Van Buskirk; Township 
Committee, A. J. Bogert, C. T. Zabriskie, James Taplin. 

1891. — Freeholder, Henry Van Buskirk; Township Clerk, Edward 
P. Veldrame; Assessor, N. G. Hopper; Collector, Peter Van Buskirk; 
Township Committee, John G. Zabriskie, A. J. Bogert, C. T. Zabriskie. 

1892. — Freeholders, E. D. Howlaud, John C. Van Saun; Township 
Clerk, J. H. Weston; Assessor, N. G. Hoi)])er; Collector, Peter Van 
Buskirk; Township Committee, John (x. Zabriskie, Caspar Zabriskie, 
Albert J. Bogert. 

1893. —Freeholder, John E. Van Saun; Township Clerk, J. H. Wes- 
ton; Assessor, N. C. Hopper; Collector, Peter Van Buskirk; Township 
Committee, John G. Zabriskie, Casper Zabriskie, Albert J. Bogert. 

1S<)4.— Freeholder, E. D. Howland; Township Clerk, J. H. Weston; 
Assessor, N. G. Hopper; Collector, Peter Van Buskirk; Township Com- 
mittee, J. (i. Zabriskie, D. H. Hopper, C. T. Zabriskie. 

1895.— Freeholder, E. D. Howland; Township Clerk, H. Howland; 
Assessor, N. (t. Hopper; Collector, E. M. Pell; Township Committee, D. 
H. Hopper, John G. Zabriskie, Peter Ackerman. 

1896.— Freeholder, E. D. Howland; Township Clerk, H. Howland; 
Assessor, N. G. Hopper; Collector, E. M. Pell; Township Committee, 
D. H. Hopper, John G. Zabriskie, Peter Ackerman. 

1897.— Freeholder, R. W. Cooper; Township Clerk, H. Howland; 
Assessor, N. G. Hopper; Collector, E. M. Pell; Township Committee, 
D. H. Hopper, John G. Zabriskie; Peter Ackerman. 

1898.— Freeholder, R. W. Cooper; Township Clerk, H. Howland; 
Assessor, N. G. Hopper; Collector, E. M. Pell; Township Committee, 
D. H. Hopper, John G. Zabriskie, John W. Winters. 

1899. — Freeholder, R. W. Cooper; Township Committee, H. How- 
land; Assessor, M.G. Hopper; Collector, E. M. Pell; Township Committee, 
D. H. H(ipper, John G. Zabriskie, John W. Winters. 

AKCOLA 

located on Saddle River, was originally known as '"Red Mill", where a 
saw and grist mill erected on the river at this point, before the Revolu- 



HISTOKY OF BKKC.KN COUNTY 317 



tion, was owned l)y Jacob Zabriskic. i;-cnerally known in the neii^libor- 
hood as •King Jacob". 

Stephen Slote, followed by Barney Kver were afterwards projjrietors. 
Benjamin Oldis who afterward owned the property, sold it to Albert A. 
Westervelt when it was converted into a woolen factory. Edward B. 
Force, also operated the concern as a woolen mill and sawmill. His 
heirs afterward sold to (ieorge Graham, and after his death it became 
the property of a company. The mills, however, fell to decay years a<>;o. 

The tirst school in Areola District was established in 1821. The 
salary of the teacher Miss Lydia Westervelt, was raised by contributions 
from the patrons of the school. An old stone dwelJing- house served for 
school purposes until i824, when an old red scln)()lhouse standing- in dis- 
trict twenty-six was purchased and placed on a stonewall so high that 
four steps were required to reach the entrance. These steps were con- 
structed of four logs hewn square. This house was fourteen by twenty- 
four feet, and one story high, the whole costing two hundred dollars. 
In 1826 Mr. Andrew Cudihy became the teacher, succeeded in 182*> by 
Mr. John W. House, whose salary was thirty-six dollars per quarter. 
Mr. James J. Terhune taught the school in 1831, and Mr. Christian 
Reeder in 1836. These last were paid by the assessment of one <lollar 
and a half per quarter for each child and his proportion of the teacher's 
washing bill. 

AKCOLA METHODIST KPISCOPAI, CHUKCII 

Areola Methodist Episcopal Church, tlie oldest in the townshi]), 
was originally known as the Methodist Episcopal Church of Red Mills, 
the name being changed to that of Methodist Episcopal Church of 
Areola, when the name of the town was changed. The tirst meeting 
with a view to the erection of a building was held March 14, 1843, at 
the home of Edward H. Force, who was a member of the society, and 
donated the land upon which the edifice stands, and for which a deed, 
dated March 7, 1843, was given. Mr. Force also contributed largely to- 
ward the construction of the building, supplying all deficiencies in ma- 
terial or means. The first hoard of trustees was composed of the fol- 
lowing gentlemen: Edward H. Force, James V. Joralemon. William II. 
Phelps, Andrew Lutkins. Loilowick Youngs and William A. (iurnes. 
The present trustees ( 18')'M are Isaac A. Voohris, .\. I). Voorhis, David 
Dunbar, (). J. Peeple, T. W. Vreeland, 1'.. 1). East<m and Joseph Lut- 
kins. 

The pastors in succession have been Rev. Nicholas Van Sant. 
Fletcher Luminis, Dr. A. L. Hrice, A. E. Ballard and Rev. Bush. After 
Mr. Bush, the next of whom is a record, is Rev. Manning F. Decker, 
who was followed in time by Revs. S. F. Palmer, J. A. Trimmer, T. 
T. Hall, T. D. Frazee, E. S. Jamison, 11. J. Hayler and W. M. John- 
ston. The present presiding elder is Kev. J. K. Fright. 



318 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

SPRING VALLEY. 

The title, Sprin<f Valley, belongs not to a village or settlement but 
to a region in Midland about three miles in length and two miles in width. 
A succession of valleys lying between gentle elevations abounding in 
perennial springs probably gave it the name. Originally the name 
" Sluckup " was the term used in designating the place. That word 
having once been used by a land owner whose cow had tried to swallow 
his coat, after which he always spoke of the place by that name. 

In 1832 the more euphonious title. Spring Valley was substituted. 
Of these springs, one is said to mark the spot near where Washington 
and his troops encamped one night. Many of the houses in this vicinity 
have a colonial appearance, and were built after the old Dutch style of 
architecture. The first school building in the Spring Valley district, for- 
merly known as "Sluckup," was erected before the war of the 
Revolution, and used for school purposes until 1810. A new building 
was then erected in the lower portion of the neighborhood nearly a mile 
distant from the old location. In 1852 another house was erected a few 
hundred yards north of the old site and then a modern structure, in 
1875. Spring Valley Association was formed during the year 1860 and a 
building known as the Spring Valley Chapel was erected for the uses 
specified in the Constitution of the Association. Clergymen from differ- 
ent Churches have held services in the Chapel until the jiresent time. 

DELFOKD. 

The borough of Delford was made from portions of four townships : 
Midland, Harrington, Palisade and Washington, the corners of these 
four portions of the county centering at New Milford. The name was 
made from the last syllable of Oradell "Del" and the last one of New 
Milford "Ford" and this compromise settled a contention carried on by 
the inhabitants of the two villages above mentioned for the naming of 
the borough as each of them wanted it in honor of his own place. The 
organization was effected in the Spring of 1894, by Mr. Jacob Van Bus- 
kirk, Mr. R. W. Cooper, D. I. Demarest and others, principally of Mid- 
land township, in order to secure benefits arising from their own exces- 
sive taxation for public improvements, for their own use. The first 
election for officers resulted in the selection of R. W. Cooper for Mayor; 
Daniel I. Demarest, Albert J. Bogert, Horton Chapin, Stephen Voornis 
and James Earl for Council; Arthur Van Buskirk, Clerk; Jacob M. 
Hill, Assessor; Peter Van Buskirk, Collector. 

Mr. Cooper was succeeded b}- Mr. Daniel I. Demarest and he in 
turn bv the present Mayor. 

The officers of the borough for iS')'* are as follows: — Aaron A. 
Ackerman, Mayor; Frank T. Barnes, J. Demarest Van Wagoner, Adolph 
Landmann, Leopold Hague, Charles Winters, Herbert Jones, Council; 
J. Edgar Waitc, Clerk; Charles H. Storms, Assessor; Peter W'ln Bus- 
kirk, Collector. 

The official vote cast in this Ixirough at the November election of 
1!S')S was 151. 



HISTOKV OK BKKC.KN COUNTY 319 

NEW MILFOKD. 

The villag-e i)f New Milford is on the line of the New Jersey and 
New York railroad and on the Hackensack River, where the immense 
pumping stations of the Hackensack Water Company are located. The 
water of the Hackensack at this point is pure and clear, and supplies 
Hoboken, North Hudson county and all Berg-en county. Average 
daily consumption being- 8,000,000 gallons. Three pumps are in use 
here with a capacity of 10,000,000, 5,000,000 and .^,000, 000, and one now 
in coBstructicQ of 13,000,000 gallons respectively. 

The earliest effort with a view to business enteri)rise, was made 
by one, Wanamaker, who opened a store and cond:.cted it for a consider- 
able time. He was succeeded by Abram Cole, after whom came Cornel- 
ius Smith, then Jacob R. Demarest, followed by George Derunde. 
Jacob Van Buskirk afterwards controlled the trade. He had the post 
office for sixteen years, taking that position about the time of the out- 
break of the Civil War. J. B. H. Voorhis now owns the store. 

Before the Revolutionary war there was a sawmill here, which 
subsequently became a tannery and a bleaching mill, then a button manu- 
factory and later still was converted into a grist-mill by Jacob Van 
Buskirk. This was in 1830. It remained in the hands of Mr. Van 
Buskirk and his son Jacob, now diving, until 1882, when the pro])erty 
passed into the hands of the Hackensack Water Company. 

A coal and lumber yard in New Milford is owned by Cooper I'i 
Demarest, who formed a partnership in 1890. 

Oradell had no history as a village, until after the building of the 
railroad in 1878. when the present hotel was erected and soon after the 
store opposite the depot was built. From this time buildings were 
added, now it is a beautiful village. In 18')3 the present commodious 
church edifice was erected, of which congregation the Rev. John T. K. 
DeWitt has pastoral charge. 

The mill now owned by William X'eldran occupies the site of an old 
grist and saw mill that was burned, and afterwards rebuilt by Albert /i. 
Ackerman. This mill was also consumed by fire. Soon after the late 
war it was rebuilt by Mr. Veldran and is now operated by him on a large 
scale, he buying his grain by the carload from the west. 

Mercantile interests here were begun by Isaac Demarest, who traded 
for a time. He built his store two or three years after the railroad was 
built. Then John Van Buskirk and A. Landmann took it and it is now 
owned bv the latter, who is carrying on a large trade. A hardware 
store was but recently opened. The post office in Oradell has been ke]Jt 
the greater part of the past twenty years, by D. I. Demarest, who is the 
present incumbent. 

OKADKI-L. 

signifying "margin of the valley", is attractively located on the Hack- 
ensack River just above tidewater. The New Jersey and New York 
Railroad passes through it on the west side of the river. It was here on 



320 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

the first ridge west of the river, that Washington's army was camped 
for some months. 

The earliest families in this vicinity are the Demarests, Voorhis' 
Loziers and Van Buskirks. Mr. John Van Buskirk owned and operated 
the original mill at this place, probably as early as the period of the 
Revolutionary War. His son Luke Van Buskirk, sold it to Jacob Voor- 
his, in whose family it remained three generations, first going from 
Jacob Voorhis to his son Henry, and from Henry, to his son Henry, by 
whom it was sold to Jacob and John Voorhis 

The Oradell School District boasted of a log structure here before 
the Revolutionary War. It stood on land owned by Jacob Van Buskirk, 
Sr., and was used until ISlO when a second building was erected on lands 
of Mr. Henry Voorhis. In 1847 another building, the last one before 
the present structure, was erected, Mr. Daniel P, Demarest was a 
teacher here for a number of years, and in 1819 he was succeeded by 
Mr. Bordeaux. Peter Debaun came in 1826, then William Smith who 
taught the classics. The schools of Oradell are now in a flourishing 
condition. 

KIVEKSIDE BOKOUGH. 

This borough was organized in the summer of 18'H and includes the 
villages of River Edge and Cherry Hill. The circumstances which led 
to its organization are similar to those which caused its sister borough 
of Delford to incorporate, both of them having been taken principally 
from the township of Midland. Its first officers were as follows : John 
G. Webb, Mayor ; A. Z. Bogert, Nicholas R. Voorhis, D. Anderson 
Zabriskie, Nathaniel B. Zabriskie, James D. Christie, Fred. H. Crum, 
Council; Joseph A. Brohel, Clerk; John R. Voorhis, Assessor; J. B. 
Holdrum, Collector. 

The first officers were all re-elected the next year and in 18'>7 Joseph 
A. Brohel was elected Mayor, and is the preserft Mayor of the borough. 

The officers for 189'* are as follows: Joseph A. Brohel, Mayor; A. 
Z. Bogert, James B. Christie, Fred. H. Crum, J. Anderson Zabriskie, 
Nathan B. Zabriskie, J. Z. B. Voorhis, Assessor; Joseph A. Weston, 
Collector. 

The official vote in November 1898 was 162. 

CHEKKY' HILL. 

Cherry Hill lies on the Hackensack River less than two miles below 
River Edge on the New Jersey and New York Railroad. It was early 
settled by the French, none of whom now remain. It has a post office, a 
hotel, a church and one or two small stores. The historic building of 
the place is the Baron Von Steuben Mansion erected in 1757, and now 
owned by Captain Zabriskie. David A. Zabriskie moved into this house 
in 1812. There was a mill on the river here which burned down years 
ago. Formerly the chair making industry was carried on here 
to some extent. The building of the railroad, however, changed the 
centre of trade. The hotel was built in 1871 and other buildings fol- 



HISTORY OK BKRGEN COUNTY 321 

lowed soon after. The tornado of July 13, lS't5 blew the hotel down 
and killed Mr. Freideman, the proprietor and also unroofed a number 
of houses. 

The Reformed Church at Cherry Hill, \v;is formed in the Spring; of 
1858 by John A. Parsons, a devout Christian man of Hackensack, who 
visited New Bridge on Sabbath afternoons to instruct the youth. May 
2, 1852 a Sabbath school was organized with Mr. Parsons as superinten- 
dent the success attending the school resulting in meetings for praver 
and praise service Sabbath evenings, the Rev. Dr. Romeyn of Hacken- 
sack also frequently attending the meetings. This condition of things 
continued down to 1875, when the Church was organized. The ground 
for a Church building was donated by John A. Zabriskie of Hacken- 
sack and the greater part of the building stone for it was taken from 
an old house that stood opposite, and which was once owned by Usual 
Meeker, an officer in the British armv, which encamped in the neighbor- 
hood during the Revolutionary war. It subsequently became the prop- 
erty of John Lozier, whose widow carried out the wishes of her husband 
in the building of the church edifice which was dedicated November 1, 
1886 as " The Reformed Church of Cherry Hill and New Bridge." The 
sermon for the occasion was preached by the Rev. David Inglis of New 
York. At first the society had about twentj'-five members, over whom 
Mr. Charles Wood officiated as temporary minister for about two years. 
The church now has a membership of about fifty persons over whom 
the Rev. Abram Duryee officiated as pastor. 

BUKIAI.-PI.ACES. 

The burial-places in Midland are not numerous, and now but little 
used, many of the inhabitants at the present day having chosen places 
of interment outside the township limits. 

The oldest is probably known as the Spring Valley Cemetery, near 
the centre of the township, on the farm of Gilliam Zabriskie. It rej)- 
resents more than a century of use, some of the memorial tablets 
being of old red sandstone, and much defaced by age. Among the 
families who have buried here are the Bantas, Demarests, Voorhis, 
Bertholfs, Kipps, Van Sauns, De Bauns, and Huylers. Among the in- 
scriptions are the following: 

In memory of Rebecca, daughter of Samuel and Eftie Bogert, who 
died on the 12th of December, i807, aged 1 year. 11 months, and (> 
days. 

When I lie buried deep in dust. 
My flesh shall by Thy care: 
These withered limbs with Thee I trust. 
To raise them strong and fair. 

In mcmorv of Henry Banta, who departed this life August 12lh, 
1817, aged sixty-six years, one month, and eighteen days. 

Also of Elizabeth Lake, wife of Henry Banta, who died September 
4, 1817, aged sixty-seven years, eight months, and" eighteen days. 



HISTOKY OK BKKGKN COUNTY 323 



I know, O Lord, that thy judgments are right, and that thou in 
faithfulness has afflicted me. See ! the Lord is good. Blessed is the 
man that trusteth in him. 

In memory of Nicholas Demarest, who was born on the .^rd of Mav, 
175'), and departed this life February dth, ISll. aged liftv-one years. 
nine months, and three days. 

Hier Leir her Lighaem Van Yacob Brouwer is (iestervende 2(. fr \ an 
Augustus in her laer 1784 was our tifty-efght laer. 

In memory of Margaret Ackerman, born the lOth of February. 17(i4, 
and who departed this life September f)th 1805, aged thirty-eight years, 
six months, and twenty-four days. 

A very old burial-place, known as the Voorliis burial-ground, is 
located near New Milford, cm the farm of N. R. Voorhis. It was in use 
at the time of the Revolutit)nary War, but has since been abandoned. 
A substantial fence incloses its ancient graves. 

The two hamlets of River Edge and Cherry Hill are in the borough 
of Riverside. Both of these places have been trading centres since a 
very early day. At River Edge there were two stores, one on each side 
of the river, kept by the Demarests. The wagon teams were constantly 
busy hauling wood to the place for transportation to New York, the 
stores there trading salt, sugar and molasses, they being among the 
products of exchange. The Demarests also had a mill on the river, 
used over two hundred years ago. During the trying scenes of the 
Revolution it was known as Old Bridge, and prior to the date of its 
present christening as New Bridge. Here it was that during the Revolu- 
tionary War, upon the evacuation of Fort Lee, the troops escaped from 
the British bv crossing the bridge at this point and afterwards burning it. 

The village is beautifully located on the slope of a ridge overlooking 
the depot and railroad, and at the present time is a brisk center of 
trade. A. Z. Bogert and J. D. Holdrum, each has a store, the former 
also engaging in the coal and lumber trade. 

B(>K<)r(;ii oi' :\iAVW()()i). 

The village of Mavwood is situate<i on the Susejuehanna Kailr<iad 
sixteen miles west of New York and two miles west of Hackensack, and 
is in close touch with both of these cities through numerous trains (hat 
pass to and from them daily at this place. 

The lands here were formerly owned by Daniel Ackerman, .lolm 
Romaine, John R. Olds, Andrew Voorhis, James Berdan, David lierdan, 
Cornelius Van Saun and by Henry, John and Martin Terhune It 
remained a farming community until Mr. (lustav L. Jaeger and Henry 
Lindenmeyer purchased a large tract of the land and began to plot it off 
for a village. In 18 — Mr. Jaeger purchased Mr. Lindenmeyer's interests 
and from that time handsome new buildings began to be erected, roads 
laid out and macadamized and other improvements made. 

Through Mr. Jaeger's efforts, and his money, the Hackensack Water 
Com])anv was induced to extend their mains through the streets, the 



324 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COITNTY 



Electric Liji^ht Company to put up lamps, and these with the internal 
improvements incident to the public spirit of the place has made the vil- 
lag-e a desirable one for a country residence. 

The Borough of Maywood was organized in March, 18'>4. The offi- 
cers then elected were Clarence A. Breckinridge, Mayor; Gustav L. 
Jaeger, John H. Voorhis, John H. Cumberland, Charles Lydecker, Philip 
Thoma and David H. Price, Councilmen. Mr. David H. Price was next 
elected Mayor, and he in turn was succeeded by John C. Van Saun, who 
is now serving his second term. 

The borough was taken out of Midland Township, and is in extent 
of territory one and three-fourths by one mile. The official vote cast 
here in November 1898 was ninety-one. 




• ■ MAYWOOD AKT TILK WOKKS. 

The Maywood Art Tile Company whose works and land are situ- 
ated near the New York, Susquehanna and Western Railroad tracks, 
west of the Maywood station, is the chief industrial establishment of 
the thriving Borough of Maywood. This company' was first organ- 
ized and the works built in the year 1890, under the name of the Elte- 
rich Art Tile Stove Company with Mr. Gustav L. Jaeger and Henry 
Lindenmeyer as principal stockholders. The object was the manu- 
facture of art tile stoves and gratesresembling the ornamental European 
tile or porcelain stoves, combining with the artistic appearance, the more 
practical features of the American self-feeding and base-burning stove. 

These stoves, however, not meeting with the expected favor and 
success, it was decided to go more extensively into the manufacture of 
art tiles for the general market. 

The company was reorganized in the winter of 1892-93 and its name 
changed to that of Maywood Art Tile Company, when the manufacture 



HISTOKV OF BKKCtEN COUNTY 



325 



of art tiles was beg'un at once, under the nianag-ement of Mr. Krnst 
Bilhuber. The tiles produced are the kind used in our modern buildin<js 
around fireplaces and mantels, in bathrooms, vestibules, wainscotinjf, etc. 

The artistic product of this factory, has been successfully introduced, 
is well received by the trade and has been carrying- the name of "Ma\-- 
wood Tiles" as a synonj'm of excellence of quality and beauty all over 
the country. 

The greater part of the raw material used in this manufacture comes 
from the New Jersey- clay beds, of which there is an abundance in many 
parts of the state. 

The company is gradually increasing its outpir and furnishes steady 
work for some tortv to fifty men, a good many of wh mi live in the neat 




MAvwooi) scHOOi. iiorsic 

cottages built by the Company for that purpose, in close proximity to 
the works. 

TllK MAVWOOI) UOS1-; COMI'AXV, NO 1. 

The Maywood Hose Company, No. 1, was organized .May 10, ls<»;v 
an was the first public organization of any kind in .Maywood. The first 
officers were William Widnall, President; C. T. Kuchler, Secretary; 
Georgia Jaeger. Treasurer; I). A. SpeigKt, Foreman; K. J. Marsh, Jr., 
Assistant Foreman. In July, 1S9.S, the organization lost its house and 
apparatus by fire, an<l in Sei)tember of the same year secured a new hose 
wagon, as shown in cut. Through the efforts .)f Mr. (nistav L. Jaeger, 
Ernst Bilhuber the company was materially assisted and the present 
hose house ori Jlufiter- Av-Pnwe, -er-ected. The comi)any at present has 
twenty active members and a number of honorary members. 




^1> 



HISTOKY OF BKKGKN COUNTY 



327 



COLONIAL BX'ILDINGS OK MAYWOOD AND VICINITY. 

Maywood, and the suburbs of the county-seat, Hackensack, can 
pride itself on the possession of a hirge number of substantial old build- 
ing's, being- fine specimens of early colonial architecture, landmarks of 
the early settlements with a typical style all their own. 

There seems to be three specific types of cohmial architecture in this 
country. The English noblemen and their offspring, who settled in \'ir- 
ginia and Maryland developed there an ornamental and pretentious style 
of architecture, while the Puritans in New England, being men of the 
most severe simplicity, built houses of a more modest and plain character. 
It was the Dutch who settled New Jersey, and more especially Bergen 




A COI.O.NIAI. KKSIIIK.NCK DI' MAVWOOn 

county, and here we find the greatest originality of taste and character 
in their colonial buildings, which are superior to both the other classes. 
If we remember that the Dutch settlers of Bergen county came fnmi a 
country which at the time of their emigration represented the leading 
civilization of Europe in industry, commerce and fine arts, being the 
countrv of Rembrandt, Van Dyke, and the illustrious Dutch School, we 
find it quite natural that these peojjle have shown culture and taste in 
their architecture, as is demonstrated in hundreds of buildings all over 
Bergen count}-. Besides the dwellings, we may mention as fine examples 
of their style, the churches and especially the First Dutch Reformed 
Church of Hackensack and the Paramus Church, of which we show 
illustrations elsewhere in this work. 

Accompanying this sketch, we have shown a few ])rints of tlie 
houses in j)roximity to the Maywood R.iilroad station. 



328 



HISTOKY OK BEKCEN COUNTY 



All of these houses were built in the last century. The walls are 
from two to three feet in thickness, of domestic red sandstone, and the 
mortar used is of the best quality', greatly superior to that in our modern 
masonwork. The interior woodwork is artistic and well finished. The 
doors and the necessarily deep window casinffs, are finely paneled, and 




the mantel pieces well proportioned and sometimes richly carved. All 
is harmonious with no inartistic feature. The timbers and roofs are. 
without excepticm, of hewn oak most substantially jointed, and if n( 
vandalism destroy these monuments of the early Dutch colonial time 
they will stand and be admired for centuries to come. 



HISTORY OK BKKCIKN COUNTY 



329 



MK. GUSTAV I,. JAEGER. 

Mr. Gustav L. Jaeg-er is a successful New York business man who 
has made Maywood his home, and where he owns a large tract of land. 
He is President of the Maywood Land Company and has built an 
eleg-ant residence, the so called "Colonial Terrace." He has been in this 
country about forty-six years and has been in active business ever since, 
generally in the line of paper and its manufacture. He is a patnm of 
a number of benevolent institutions in New Jersey and New Y( rk. As 
a practical and active man, he has taken out over seventy Patents, some 
of which are in world wide use. He was elected a member of the first 
Borough Council of Maywood and has been Chairman of the Finance 
Committee ever since. 




RI'tSlDHNCH 



.1 >r\v I,. iai:i".i:k 



As owner of a large tract of land along the New York Southern 
and Western Railroad running from Hackensack Heights to the Saddle 
River, he has erected a number of houses, and all the modern improve- 
ments in the Borough, such as the water supply, electric lights and gas, 
as well as the macadamized streets, are due to his energy and liberality. 

MR. KRNST BII.mrHICK. 

Mr. Uilhuber of Maywood, was born in the south of (Jrermany in the 
year 1849. He came to this country at the age of twenty and began 
work in New York, in his profession of designing and consulting engin- 
eer. In the year 1876 he served as secretary of the (lerman Commission 
to the World's Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia. Through his con- 
tributions to European technical and industrial papers (luring this time 
he has helped considerably to make Europe acejuainted with the high 
industrial development and achievements of this country. Later on he 
devoted his attention to manufatturing enterjjrises. The large Steel 



330 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

Wire Works of R. H. Wolff & Co., of New York, of which concern he is 
a director, were built under his superintendence. In 1892 he interested 
himself in the Maywood Art Tile Company, of which he took the 
management. Since that time he has made Maywood his home, and has 
taken an active interest in its development and in all local issues of the 
borough. He served in the iirst Maywood Board of Education, and was 
chairman of the Building Committee, during the erection of the model 
school house, of which we publish a good view. He has been influential 
in organizing the first fire company of the borough, and in 1895 was 
elected to a seat in the Borough Council, and at the expiration of his first 
three years' term, was re-elected. 

Mr. Bilhuber bought for his home one of the old landmarks, the 
the Brinkerhoif homestead, a substantial stone dwelling, next to the 




KKNST BII,HI:BEK 

present railroad station, and has greatly beautified the grounds and 
improved the house both in its exterior and interior, keeping strictly to 
the spirit and style of its original architecture. His residence has the 
appearance of a substantial old colonial homestead of which there are 
many fine specimens to be found in Bergen county, worthy of preserva- 
tion and study. 

JOHN C. VAN .SAUN. 

John C. Van Saun, Mayor of Maywood, represents an old family in 
the county who was here before the War of the Revolution. Cornelius 
Van Saun was the first to locate at Cherry Hill, where his three Sf)ns 
John C, Cornelius and David were born. John C. Van Saun was born 
in 1774 and died in 1849. He married Sarah Huyler, and moved first to 
Rochelle park and in 18.i3 to Maywood. Cornelius, his s<in, b irn in 



HISTORY OK BEKGEN COUNTY 331 

1S12. married Anna Moore of Tenafly. Their children were Sarah 
Ann, Jane Elizabeth, John C. and Henrietta John C. Van Saun, the 
subject of this sketch was born in 183') and was raised a fanner. l)ut has 
spent most of his life in public office. 

Many years of his official career has been given to the interest of 
hig'hwavs, as overseer of roads. He has served as Assessor ten years 
and has also been for two years freeholder of this townshij). In 1S')7 he 
was elected Mayor of May wood and re-elected in 18')'». 

In 1862 he married Miss Margaret Amelia Moore. Their children 
are Cornelius J., now the Marshal of Maywood; Lizzie M., Anna Amelia 
and Peter Edwin. 




^ 



RESIDENCE OF EKNST BII.HUBKK 

Mr. Van Saun built his new h<mse in 18'M in which he now resides. 

KDW.XNl) I). E.\STON. 

At Areola, on the banks of the winding Saddle Kiver near the site 
of the old Red Mill, where it is related the people of the county gave a 
reception to Colonel Aaron Burr, when, in the days of his youth that 
impetuous officer headed an expedition that drove the Hessian troops 
from this region, has risen a stately mansion, which serves both as an 
adornment to the country and as a monument to the achievements of (me 
of the men that Bergen Cfninty has reason to be proud of. This is the 
home of Mr. Edward D. Easton. It was on this spot his childhood and 
youth were spent, and here he returned to make his home, when, still in 
the prime of manhood, he had won fortune through an industry and an 
organizing and creative ability, that overcame every obstacle. 

Mr. Easton's father and mother, who came to New Jersey from 
Hrooklvn in l.Sf.S, lived in a comfortable old house fronting on Paramus 




EDWAKD D. EASTON 



HISTOKY OK KKKGKN COUNTY .?33 



road. Mr. Easton "grew up" hero, attended the district s.hocil, but 
started out to make his own way in the world much younger than most 
boys do. His first employment was on the Hackensack R?publican 
where he served nearly two years as reporter and editor. Having ac- 
quired a knowledge of shorthand, he did work in that line for various 
New York papers, as well as for his own paper. His shorthand accom- 
plishment led to his securing an appointment when barel}- eighteen years 
of age, in the Light House Board in Washington. This took him from 
Areola, and thenceforward until his return in 1897; he spent only his 
vacation days in the old home. Mr. Easton retained his position in the 
Light House Board for several years ; but meanwhile had been gaining 
such a reputation as a stenographer, that there was a constant demand 
for his services in that capacity. This resulted finally in his severing 
his cimnection with the Ciovernment, in order to enter the more lucrative 
field offered in private work to a stenographer of superior attainments. 
Mr. Easton succeeds in whatever he undertakes, and he succeeded to 
such an extent as a stenographer that he not onh- came to be acknowl- 
edged by fellow craftsmen one of the greatest of them all, but also, be- 
came notable among them for having earned more money with his pen 
in a given time than any shorthand writer living. Mr. Easton first came 
into prominence as a stenographer in the (iuiteau trial at Washington, 
the full and accurate repbrt of that celebrated case, having been mostly 
the ■vV'orkof his pen. - His excellent work there brought about his employ- 
ment by the Department of Justice and by other Government Bureaus in 
famous and protracted trials, notably the Star Route trials, which occu- 
pied upward of a year. During these busy years Mr. Easton found time 
to study law. and was enrolled as a member of the bar of the District of 
Columbia. 

When a little over thirty years of age, Mr. Easton was able to lay 
aside his pen, having accumulated a substantial capital, and devote 
himself to what has seemed to be his life work, the development of the 
talking machine art. It is an interesting fact that the first men to 
appreciate the talking machine as a practical invention were steno- 
graphers, who saw the incalculable value of an instrument that would 
perform automatically, tirelessly and accurately, the work for which 
stenographers required years of training- that is, the recording and 
rejjroducing of human speech. Soim after the (irapho])hone patents 
were issued in 1877, and the talking machine became a practical thing. 
Mr. Easton organized in Washington the Columbia Phonogra])h Com- 
jianv. which at first had for its territory the District of Columbia, 
Maryland and Delaware. Mr. Easton and his associates were i)ractical 
men and began with a thorough knowledge of the instrument they 
had to deal with, and an enthusiastic faith in its future as well as a 
good stock of business sense. Through lack <>!' these, the thirty other 
c >nipanies then organized gradually disappeared while the Columbia 
Company was successful in all its undertakings. Its operations soon 
extended bevond its original territorial limits and becann' world-wide. 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 335 

When the American (Irapliophone C()m])anv the owner of the patents 
was reorganized in 1<S<J5, Mr. Easton who had secured practical control 
of the talking machine market was made first general manager and 
soon afterwards President of the Company. At the same time that he 
entered with characteristic vigor upon the practical business-manage- 
ment of the company, he took charge also, as Counsel, of its local 
affairs and his wise management in that capacity contributed much to 
placing the concern on its present solid footing. A coalition was formed 
between his old company and the Graphophone Company, and Mr. 
Easton at the head of both came into control not of the market only 
l)ut of the concern which soon became, under his direction the greatest 
manufacturing establishment in the world of talking machines. The 
remarkable strides made by the American Graphophone Company in 
three years under Mr. Easton's capable management are familiar facts 
to those at all acquainted with the condition of the industry. The 
establishment which at the time he took charge required only one end 
of a leased factory to house it, now occupies the whole of one of the 
largest factory plants in Bridgeport, Conn., the company owning the 
buildings and additional ground sufficient to duplicate the plant when 
necessary. 

Through the Columbia Phonograph Company, under Mr. Easton's 
management, the American (jraphophone Company is represented in 
most of the principal cities of this country, as well as in Paris, by 
handsome offices and salesrooms, in nearly every case occupying entire 
buildings. In the meantime, Mr. Easton having removed his business 
headquarters from Washington to New York, and having acquired the 
means to enable him to gratify his wishes, has returned to Areola, the 
spot he has so long known as home. As a matter of sentiment, he has 
built his new home on the very site of the old one, and a part of the old 
house has been utilized on the new. 

Mr. Easton has been twice married. His first wife died after a brief 
wedded life, leaving a daughter. In 1883 he married Miss Helen Morti- 
mer Jefferis, of Washington, the lady who now presides over the home 
at Areola. By his second marriage he has four children, three daughters 
and a son. Mr. Easton is simple in his tastes, affable and approachable. 
His straightforward methods, unfailing courtesy and unswering loyalty 
to his high ideals of right, have gained for him the respect of the com- 
mercial world and attached his friends and business associates to him 
with bonds of the strongest character. Mr. East(m has been a great 
traveler on business and pleasure and possesses a varied knowledge of 
men and affairs that makes him a most pleasing companion. His home 
is noted for its hospitality and for the happiness that always dwells in it. 

The house is simple but imposing in appearance, the style being 
Colonial. There is a broad veranda in front, spacious and delightful 
hall, ])arlors and general rooms cm the first Hoor, and many commodious 
chambers above. The stable is built in corresptmding style. Mr. 
Easton has about fifty acres of land attached to his residence. That 



HISTOKV OI- BEKC.EN COUNTY 337 

immediately adjoining the house has been laid out as a park with strik- 
intf landscape effects. To illuminate the house and grounds and the 
roadway between the house and Rochelle Park railway station, elec- 
tricity has been brought by Mr. Easton by a private line from Hackeij- 
sack. and a long distance telephone connects the house by ]irivatc line 
with Hackensack thence all other telephone posts. 

JACOB VAN BUSKIKK. 

The earliest ancestor of the Van Buskirk famiij- in Bergen county, 
was John, who came from Holland, and located at Teaneck, now Engle- 
wood. He had two children, John and Cornelius. Both settled in Ber- 
gen county, Cornelius eventually removing to St;iten Island, where his 
descendants still reside. John married Miss Rachel Dey and remained 
at the old homestead spending his life as a farmer. His children were: 
Peter, who lived on the old farm ; Elsie, who married John Ackerman ; 
Jacob, and Elizabeth, wife of John Bogert, and John who also resided at 
Teaneck. Of these children, Jacob learned the trade of carpenter, but 
never made use of it further than to build a saw mill for his own use 
being a farmer all his life. 

He married Catharine, daughter of Captain Abram Haring, a Revo- 
lutionary soldier. Their children were Sarah, wife of Stephen Lozier, 
John, Abram and Jacob. John removed to Staten Island where he spent 
the remainder of his life. Abram removed to River Edge, and died there 
a few years later. 

Jacob who was born at Teaneck, July 26, 1807, spent his early years 
at this place, where for a period of more than twenty years he carried on 
the store now owned by J. H. B. Voorhis. Later he and his brother 
erected the mills afterward owned by his sons. He was active in the 
promotion of public enterprise, a director of the New Jersey and New 
York Railroad, and also a director of the Bergen County Farmers' 
Mutual Insurance Company. 

Mr. Van Buskirk married in August 5, 1826, Miss Hannah Voorhis 
of Kinderkamack. Three children were born of this union, Jacob, 
Henry and Eliza C, who became the wife of Nicholas R. Voorhis. Mrs. 
Van Buskirk died September 8, 187'). 

Jacob, our subject, was born July 23, 1827. He lirst attended the dis- 
trict school for a number of years, subsequently bec<miing a student in 
Lafayette Academy, Hackensack, where he paid his tuition by acting as 
assistant teacher. After leaving the Academy, he taught in the district 
school at Closter for a short time, and afterwards had charge of the 
school at Kinderkamack, from which jjlace he was called to the 
principalship of Washington Institute, where he remained over three 
years. This was a iitting close to his short but successful career in the 
work of teaching. 

Mr. \'an Ihiskirk with his brother Henry now bought a half share 
in the milling business and formed the partnership of J. & H. Van Bus- 



3.^8 HISTOKV OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

kirk. This tirm eventually sold out to the "Hackensack Water C<)m])any 
ReorfJ-anized." 

The only offices Mr. Van Buskirk could be induced to accept was 
that overseer of highways, which he held for a period of twenty years; 
and the office of postmaster which he held about sixteen years, begin- 
ning- near the time of the War of the Rebellion. He is largely inter- 
ested in public improvements in the Borough of Delford, of which he 
was one of the promotors, and to his business sagacity is largely due 
the success of that-corporation. 

Mr. Van Buskirk was married Februarry 16, 1853 to Miss Ursula 
Peack. There children were: Sarah Maria, wife of Jacob Van Wag- 
oner; Hannah Amelia wife of Huyler Voorhis; Catharine Elmira, wife 
of Francis H. Waite; Jacob Henry, who died in infancy; Peter Edwin 
and Arthur. 

Mr. Van Buskirk is a strong Republican. 

THE LE SUEUK FAMILY. 

The Le Sueur Family has been vrell established in Normandy, 
France, for over seven centuries, and are well known in the cities of 
Paris, Dieppe and Rouen, and for four centuries were among the largest 
manufacturers of cloth in the latter city, where the business is conducted 
by their descendants. They were also well known in the liberal arts. 
Eustace Le Sueur the celebrated painter, born in Paris in 1617, and 
Jean F. Le Sueur, the composer of music born in Abbeville in 1763 were 
respectively brother and nephew of Francois Le Sueur, the Lozier 
ancestor who was born in Dieppe in 1625, and by profession was a civil 
engineer and surveyor, his name taking such forms with his descendants 
as Leseur, Lesier, Lazier and Lozier. He came from Dieppe to New 
Amsterdam in April, 1657, and was attended by his sister Jeanne, 
neither being married, but in 1659 Francois married Jannetie daughter 
of Hildebrandt Pietersen of Amsterdam, Holland. New Amsterdam 
was not to be the permanent home of Francois Le Sueur, he with about 
twenty others, mostly heads of families and freeholders, desiring to 
continue the language and customs of their mother country applied to 
the Director General and Council of New Netherlands for permission to 
purchase a tract of land adjoining the Great Kill or Harlem river. The 
number of applicants for the land being sufficient for a beginning, the 
Council granted their request. Ground was broken for the new settle- 
ment August 14, 1658, and it was named New Harlem by request of the 
Dutch Governor, Peter Stuyvesant. 

In 1663 Francois, with several others, becoming dissatislied, owing 
to the heavy taxation levied by the Dutch authorities, sold their prop- 
erty, and in the fall of that year went up the Hudson River to Esopus 
(now known as Kingston), but in the spring of 1669, Francois returned 
to New Harlem, now known as Harlem, a portion of the city of Greater 
New York. 



HisTOKV oy keki;i;n corNTv 339 

The issue of his marriage was four children, Jannetie, born in 1660; 
Hillel)rand, born in 1663; John, born in 1()65, and Nicholas, born in 1668. 
Jannatie married John Post, of Kinjifston. N. Y., and after his death, 
Thomas Innis, of New Amsterdam. Hillebrand married Elsie, dau<j;hler 
of Julian Tappen, of Kingston, N. Y., but died soon after, leaving one 
child, Jannattie, born in 1689, who married William Elting. John, the 
second son, married Rachel Snedes, of Kingston, N. Y. He had three 
children, Jannattie, born in 1(>.S7; John, born in 1689, and Catharine, 
born in 1692. Nicholas, the fourth child of Francois, was born in 1668, 
and whose branch of the family write their name Lozier, married in 
New York, May 8, 1691, Tryntie, daughter of Peter Slot, of New York. 
After his marriage he removed to Hackensack, N. J. By this marriage 
Nicholas had eight children, as follows: Hillebrand, born 1695; Petrus, 
born 1697; Johannes, born February 26, 1699; Mariti^, born May 11. 17(tl; 
Antie, born October 31, 1703; Lucas, born March 18, 1705; Jacobus, born 
October 5, 1707, and Benjamin, born October 24, 1708. After the death 
of his wife Nicholas married in Hackensack Antie Direcksee Banta, 
daughter of Derieck Banta. 

His children by this union were Trintie, born March 12, 1710; Hester, 
born December 16, 1711; Rachel, born May 17, 1714; Jacob, born May 24, 
1819; Abram, born July 1, 172i; Leya, born September 22, 1723; Mar- 
grietje, born April 5, 1726. The genealogical record of the Lozier 
family has been traced for several generations, and in some lines to date. 
The descendants of Nicholas Lozier are now living in Bergen county, 
N. J., and Newburg, Orange county, N. Y. 

The records of the Dutch churches at Hackensack and Schraalen- 
burg, N. J. contain the names of several generations of the Lozier 
family who in their day were quite numerous but are now few in numbers. 
Nicholas Lozier was a man of importance in local and church affairs. 
In the records of the Hackensack church we find that he was accepted 
as a member, on confession of faith, April 4, 1702. He was elected 
churchmaster in place of Roelof Westerveldt May 1712, was elected 
deac(m in place of Derik Blinckerhof, May 14, 1713, and elected elder in 
place of Jacob Banta in May 1723. 

During these years the movement of the people was eastward to- 
ward the Hudscra, lands were cleared and farms were occupied at Schraal- 
enburg, and as early as 1724 it was ff)und necessary to establish a church 
at Schraalenburgfor the convenience of the people of that neighborhood 
who had been accustomed to worship at Hackensack. Nicholas Lozier 
was among those in this forward movement and was elected one o( the 
first elders in the new church and was one of the six elders who called 
Rev. Georgius Wilhelmus Mancius to the pastorate of this church De- 
cember 23, 17,^0. This was his last church connection, and he was sue. 
ceeded as an officer by his children and grandchildren. 

In Ulster county. New York the descendants of Francois I^e Sueur 
have been known as Le Suer, Leeshueur, Lashiere and Lasher. Tluy 
were loyal to the colonial government. In the documentarv hist()r\ of 



340 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

the state of New York we lind the names of Hiklebrant, John and 
Nicholas, sons of Francois among those who in 1689 were supporters of 
the local authorities of the county of Ulster. They were an intensely 
patriotic people and were among the first to oiTer their services to aid the 
cause of liberty in the war of the Revolution. No less than sixteen of 
this family were in the service of the state of New York and New Jersey. 
Dunlap's History of New York, Vol. 2, page 216 published in 1840, gives 
an account of the organizing of the committee of one hundred and their 
address to the Lord Mayor of London stating that "the city of New 
York is as one man in the cause of liberty," etc. The address is signed 
by the committee, John Lasher being one of their number. In the arch- 
ives of the state of New York is documentary evidence showing the valu- 
able services of Colonel John Lasher and others of the family. Bergen 
County, N. J. records, on file in the state archives, also show that there 
were several Loziers who did well for themselves and their countr3'. 

JOHN B. I.OZIKK. 

On a high elevation of land overlooking the fertile valley of the 
Hackensack River on the New Jersey and New York Railroad eighteen 
miles from Jersey City, are located the buildings of the Oradell Stock 
Farm, one of the best horse boarding establishments in America. The 
farm is undulating and the eye can roam over the counties of Bergen 
and Hi dson in New Jersey, and Rockland and Westchester in New 
York. 1 he buildings are modern up-to-date structures in which are 
one hundred and fifty box-stalls well ventilated, and all opening into 
high fenced paddocks where the horses are allowed to exercise every 
pleasant day. Excellent water is furnished for the stables from an 
Artesian well, i45 feet deep and from which 5000 gallons have been 
pumped at one time without lowering the water more than one inch. 
This property is owned by Mr. John B. Lozier who conceived the idea 
of an institution which should surpass all others of its kind and of 
which the American Horse Breeder, March 2, 1895, says: "is as nearly 
perfect as can be made." The land comprising the farm has been 
owned by the Lozier family since the time of George HI., the present 
owner having now in his possession the original deed from the King. 
The whole farm which has been kept intact consists of three hundred 
acres nearly one hundred acres of which is virgin forest. The railroad 
intersects some of the pastures aiTording horses and colts a chance to 
become accustomed to the cars. For horses having tender feet, is a 
large tract of pasture land moist with a blue clay subsoil, and this with 
a foaling barn, blacksmith shop, pharmacy, hospital and a regulation 
half mile track completely equips the establishment as one of the best 
of the kind. 

The Lozier family are French Huguenots who formerly spelled 
their name LeSueurs. They were cloth manufacturers in the cities of 
Paris, Dieppe and Rouen in France. 



^42 



HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 




WINTER QTAKTEKS (IKADKI.I. STofK FARM 

Francois Le Sueur, the Lozier ancestor that came to America, was 
from Colmied, Normandy, a town adjoining Dieppe on the south. The 
family was well founded in Caux, and a century previous ( 1525 ) had 
figured among the cloth manufacturers of Rouen. Francis Le Sueur, 
landed on Manhattan Island in April 1657. In 1659 he married Hilde- 
brant Pieterson, of Amsterdam, Holland. The issue of this marriage 
was Annette, 1660; Hildebrant, 1663; John, 1665 and Nicholas 1668. 
Nicholas on May 8, 1691 married Tryntie Slot, a daughter of Pieter 
Jansan Slot former mayor of New Amsterdam. After marriage Nich- 
olas settled near Hackensack and the Oradell Stock Farm is part of the 
tract taken up by him at that time. 




KICTaVTXC. :^ARX--ORADKI.I. STOCK FAR>r 



344 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

Mr. John B. Lozier, the present owner of the estate, is the son of 
David B. Lozier, and Kitty Woodworth Garretson, and was born Novem- 
ber 28, 1865. His boyhood days were spent on the farm, which, prob- 
ably owing to favorable surrounding's contributed largely to his splendid 
physique, his courtle}^ bearing, and to a general symmetrical growth pro- 
ducing the broad liberal minded man that he is. A public school educa- 
tion supplemented by a course of instruction in the Hackensack Academy 
completed his curriculum of studies ; and these attainments, added to his 
many natural endowments gives us the man of practical ideas and of 
many accomplishments. 

Mr. Lozier who is an artist of considerable originality and taste has 
produced many specimens of his own handiwork, especially in decorated 
china and bric-a-brac, and is also an expert in penwork. He is a musi- 
cian of no mean attainments having made a special study of the violin. 
As a sportsman he excels ; this being verified by the many rare speci- 
mens he has collected by rod and gun while on various expeditions to 
Florida and other shooting resorts. 

As might be supposed Mr. Lozier is a royal good fellow and a fine 
entertainer. As a writer, many interesting articles from his pen have 
found their way into sporting papers and periodicals as the " Turf, Field 
and Farm" and "The American Field." His writings are chiefly 
descriptive and from his own experience. 

On June 20, 1885, Mr. Lozier married Miss Mary E. Rumsey and by 
this union have three children — Claire, Grace and Milred. Mr. Lozier 
is a Republican in politics, independent in local matters especially as to 
the welfare of his borough. He takes great pleasure in his home and 
no great wonder since the celebrated Oradell Stock farm is certainly one 
of the most interesting spots and his home one of which any man of 
equal possessions might feel justly proud. 

HIKAM LOZIEK. 

Among the descendants of Nicholas Lozier now residing at New- 
burgh, N. Y. is Hiram, son of Isaac Van Duzer Lozier and Margaret 
Jam Shay. Mr. Lozier's grandparents were Nicholas and Sarah ( Barton ) 
Lozier. His great grandfather Peter married a Miss Brouwer, of Hol- 
land ancestry, the line continuing unbroken to Nicholas Lozier and 
Tryntie Slot, his wife, who were among the early settlers of Hacken- 
sack, N. J. This family as noted elsewhere were for more than seven 
centuries well known in Normandy, France and are well known in the 
cities of Paris, Dieppe and Rouen. For more than four centuries they 
were large manufacturers of cloth in the city of Rouen, where the busi- 
ness is still carried on by their descendants. They were also well known 
in the liberal arts. Music and painting being^represented by Jean F. Le 
Suer, the composer, born in Abbeville in 1763, and by Eustace Le 
Sueur the celebrated painter, born in Paris in 1617. Eustace being a 
brother and Jean F., a nephew of Francois Le Seuer, who was by pro- 
fession a civil engineer and surveyor. The name has passed through 




HiKAM i.(>/.ii:k. 



HISTOKY OF BERGEN COUNTY 345 

several orthographical changes Lesuer, Lesier, Lazier and at present 
Lozier. The tastes and professions of these early ancestors have devel- 
oped in the present generation in no mean degree, as demonstrated in 
the persons of both Mr. Hiram Lozier of Newburgh, N. Y. and Mr. 
John B. Lozier of Oradell, N. J. Hiram Lozier was born at Newburgh, 
N. Y., June 4, 1852, and was educated in the Latin and English 
branches, in the Newburgh public schools and Academy, from which 
he was graduated in the class of 1868. 

Immediately after leaving school Mr. Lozier entered the office of the 
Washington Iron Works, at Newburgh, remaining about one year, sub- 
sequently taking a position with the Whitehill Engine Works, to learn 
the practical workings of the engine business. After several years spent 
with this company he formed a connection with the Fishkill Landing 
Machine Company, (builders of Corliss Engines, Boilers and General 
Machinery ) where he still continues. These works are located at P^ish- 
kill Landing, N. Y., opposite Newburgh. 

Mr. Lozier is active in public and social affairs, was vice-president 
of the Board of Excise, Newburgh, 18'>4-1895, member of Board of Educa- 
tion, since 1895, and chairman of committee of City Library. 

Socially he is a member of the Holland Society of New York City; 
member of the Empire State Society; Sons of American Revolution, New 
York, also member of Newburgh Historical Society, Treasurer of 
Masonic Veteran Association of Newburg, and Treasurer of Newburgh 
Academy Alumni Association. He is a member of Newburgh Lodge 
No. 309 F. & A. M. and Past Grand of Acme Lodge No. 469, 1. O. (). F. 
In his church relations he is a member of Trinity M. E. Church, being 
a member of the official Board. 

Mr. Lozier married Miss Martha A. Wylie of Newburgh, N. Y. 

DANIEL I. DEMAKEST. 

Daniel I. Demarest, Mayor of Delford. son of Isaac D. and Margaret 
(Van Wagoner) Demarest, traces his descent in a direct line from the 
early emigrants of that name who came to America, subsequently 
settling in Bergen County. Mr. Demarest was born on the old home- 
stead near the Hackensack River, March i6, iS36. This property is 
now owned by Hugh J. Grant, ex-Mayor of New York city. Previous 
to its purchase by its present owner, Mr. Demarest had resided on 
another part of this farm near Oradell, thirty acres of which he owns 
and is his home. As an old time resident of the place, fully identified 
with its business and other interests he was elected Mayor of Delford 
B(jrough, and in addition to this for many years he has been postmaster 
of Oradell ; treasurer of the Bergen County Building and Loan Asso- 
ciation, and is also treasurer of the Bergen County Farmers' Mutual 
Insurance Company. 

Mr. Demarest is a Christian gentleman, wln) with his family belong 
to the Reformed church. In ]>olitics he is a Republican. He married 




hoAA^ul ^ • S^-^^^^-^^ 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 347 

Miss Ellen A. Demarest, a dau^rhter of John D. Demarest. They have 
one son, Isaac. 

PETEK G. ZABKISKIE. 

The Zabriskie family are numerous in Bergen county, all havinf^ 
sprung- from one common ancestor, Albert, who came from Poland in 
1(.()2. The maternal ancestor however, being: a Miss Vim der Linde, of 
Holland stock. In time the children and grandchildren, finding it to 
their advantage to seek homes in other localities, the branch to which 
Peter G. belongs, came to be residents of the western part of the county, 
where his grandfather, Jacob, and his father Gilliam both continued to 
reside, and where Peter was born December 24, \8M>. 

Mr. Zabriskie received a limited education, being obliged to begin 
early to prepare for the business of life. Learning the carpenter trade, 
he eventually became a builder, after spending a number of years as a 
journeyman. Success usually follows strict attention to business, when 
honest work is done through honorable methods. That Mr. Zabriskie 
has been successful, is demonstrated by the character and number of 
buildings he has erected in the vicinity of Ridgewood, especially resi- 
dences of New York business men, among which are those of E. F. 
Hanks, W. J. Fullerton, H. S. Patterson, H. A. Dunbar, A. C. Brooks, 
C. F. Shultz. W. C. Parker. F. C. White, K. C. Atwood, and C. Atwood of 
Oradcll. These are all palatial residences, specimens of the highest art 
in modern building. 

Mr. Zabriskie's wife, to whom he was married in 1858, was Miss 
Mary Garrison, daughter of John A. Ciarrison of Allendale. Of their 
two daughters. Minnie is the wife of Louis Nearing, while Maude resides 
at home. 

Mr. Zabriskie is an independent Republican. 

A. I.ANDMANN. 

A. Landmann, merchant in Oradell, born in the city of New York, 
March 6, 1852, is a son of Frederick Landmann, who emigrated from 
Darmstadt, Germany in IS.'^l, coming to New Jersey in 186'j. Here he 
engaged in the milling business. He first came to Oradell in 1880, 
when he became associated with John W. Van Buskirk, succeeding 
Charles E. Van Buskirk of Van Buskirk Bros. They succeeded Mr. 
Isaac D. Demarest, who had established the business in i8()9. In 1880 
A. Landmann bought out the interest of Charles E. Van Buskirk, 
when the business was conducted under the firm name of Van Buskirk 
& Landmann until May 4, 18'K), when Mr. Landmann bought the inter- 
est of J. W. Van Buskirk, continuing under the name of A. Landmann. 
He is successfully dealing in the retail of general merchandise. 

Mr. Landmann was married in 1874 to Emma Jane Veldran, daugh- 
ter of William Veldran of Oradell. They have the following children: 
Florence E., Margaretta V., Emma A.. William F., and Herbert A. 

Politically, Mr. Landmann is a Democrat, holding the office of 
postmaster under Cleveland's first .Administration. He is a Council- 




PKTER G. ZABKISKIK 



HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 349 

man of the boroug'ti, and District Clerk of Schools. He is a inemher of 
the Royal Arcanum. 

CHARLES C. BASLKV. 

Charles C. Basley was born in Elizabeth, X. J., July 27th. lSf)4. 
His parents and all his ancestors, however, were natives of Europe. 

Mr. Basley was educated in the public schools of New York city and 
after leaving- school spent two years on the sea, stopping at all seaports 
from Maine to the Amazon River. After his return from this voyag^e, 
he spent two years in the west, and later was for a time engaged in 
business in New York city. At present he is occupied in gardening. 
He is Justice of the Peace of Midland townshij), and is also a member 
of the Midland Republican Club. 

Mr. Basley was married on February 25, 18')1, by J. J. Brower, |)as- 
tor of the North Baptist Church ia West Eleventh Street, New York 
city. Mrs. Basley is a granddaughter of ex-sheriff John Ackerson, who 
was a brother of ex-judge (iarret Ackerson. Two children have b-en 
born of this marriage — one a g-irl of seven years and the other a boy of 
a few months. 

HKRBKKT S. JONES, M. n. 

Dr. Herbert S. Jones of Oradell is a son of William P. Jones a 
shoe manufacturer of South Sudbury, Mass., and was born November 5, 
1851. He was educated at Williston Seminary and at Yale Colleg^e, 
spending three and one half years in classical work but did not take his 
degree. After leaving College he immediately entered upon his profes- 
sional studies at the Homeopathic Medical College in New York city, 
and upon the completion of this course, opened an office in Elizabeth, 
N. J., where he practiced two years. The doctor then spent some time 
in the west, but returned to Oradell in 1892, where he has continued to 
reside, building up a lucrative practice. In addition to his general work 
he is Medical examiner for the Prudential I^ife Insurance Company, 
and also for the Ro^-al Arcanum. 

In 18S7 Dr. Jones was married to Miss Eveline Wilson, daughter of 
James Wils(m of Elizabeth. They attend the Reformed Church. 

JOHN (',. DEMAREST. 

John Ci. Demarest, son of Garret D. Demarest first learned the 
trade of carpenter, afterwards spending (me year in the office of an 
architect. In 1890 he formed a partnership with Mr. Richard W. Cooper 
of New Milford, in the business of building and contracting, under the 
firm name of Cooper & Demarest. They are Architects and Builders, 
and have built some fine houses in Bergen county. 

Mr. Demarest is president of the Hackensack Coal and Lumber Co., 
president of the Delford Land Co., and also ])resident of the Delforil 
Sewer Co. 

He is a Mason belonging to the Temjjle I^odge of Westwood. 

Mr. Demarest was born Julv 25, ISdS. In 1S')4 he married Miss 



350 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COINTV 

Letitia Onderdonk, a daughter of Issac Onderdonk of Westwood. They 
have one son, Alfred. 

THE COOPEK FAMILY. 

The progenitor of this family was Richard Cooper, whose birth 
occurred in 16'»8, and who emigrated at a later period from his native 
Holland to America. He became the owner of an extensive tract of land 
in Bergen county, purchased of the New Jersey proprietors, and por- 
tions of which are still owned by his descendants, — Mrs. H. C. Herring, 
Mrs. Hannah Moore, and Mrs. Eleanor Van Wagoner. He married Miss 
Catherine Van Pelt, also of Holland descent, whose birth occurred in 
1700 and her death in 1745, her husband having survived until 1753. 
Among their children was John, born July 22, 1731, who served with 
credit in the war of the Revolution, as did also his son Richard, both of 
whom were taken prisoners and confined on Long Island. 

John Cooper was united in marriage to Anna Maria, daughter of 
Rev. J. H. Goetschius, and had the following children, who grew to 
mature years: Richard, Mary (Mrs. John Hopper), Catherine (Mrs. 
(iarret Hopper ), Sally (Mrs. Abram Ackerman). and Henry, who died 
in infancy. The death of Mr. Cooper occurred December 29, 1808. His 
son, Richard J., was born on the ancestral estate October 27; 1757, and 
devoted himself to the improvement of the landed property he inher- 
ited. He was united in marriage to Miss Anna Ferdon, to whom were 
born three children, — John, Eleanor (Mrs. Jacob Van Wagoner), and 
Mar_y (Mrs .John Van Wagoner). Richard J., on his release from im- 
prisonment during the war for American independence, returned to his 
home and followed farming until his death, which occurred April 8. 
1812. The birth of his son John occurred December 1, 1782, on the 
homestead, where his whole life was spent. He was married, February 
4, 1804, to Miss Sally, daughter of David Campbell, a Revolutionary 
patriot, who bore through life the scars of many wounds received while 
in the service of his country. Their children were Anne ( Mrs. Lucas 
Van Soun) born September 10, 1805; Hannah ( Mrs. B. P. Moore), whose 
birth occurred March 31, 1815; and Helena (Mrs. H. C. Herring), born 
February 17, 1818. The children of Mrs. Moore are Sarah Louisa 
( Mrs. Dr. S. J. Zabriskie ) ; John Cooper, who served with credit as 
surgeon during the late civil war, with the brevet rank of lieutenant- 
colonel, and died while in service, in 1865, at Clinton, La.; Louis, resid- 
ing at New Milford; Eliza Ann (Mrs. David H. Van Ordan); Mary 
(Mrs. Henry C. Banta); and Helena (Mrs. George Brickell. ) 

John Cooper spent his whole life upon the farm, though other busi- 
ness also engaged his attention. The offices of freeholder, justice of 
the peace, etc., were frequently filled by him. He espoused with vigor 
the principles of the Democracy, and never wavered from these con- 
victions. His religious views were in sympathy with the Reformed 
(Dutch) Church, Mrs. Cooper having been a member of the True Re- 
formed Church at Schraalenburgh. 



HISTOKY OF BEKOKN COfNTY .^51 

The death of Mr. C.)()])cr took phuc January 15, 1S75, at the 
ancestral home. 

IvMCIIAK'I) \V. COOPKlv'. 

Richard W. Cooper, son of William K. Cooper, was born in Pierii-en 
county, November 1st, 1841. His father who was a mason and builder, 
was a native of Berg-en county, also. Mr. Cooper was educated in the 
common schools, afterward learninu- the trade of carpenter, at which he 
has continued to work ever since. More than thirty years ago, he went 
into business for himself and is now the senior member of the firm of 
Cooper & Demarest, architects and builders. He is also in the lumber 
business at New Milford, is treasurer of the Hackensack Lumber Com- 
panv, and associated with the Delford Land and Improvement Company. 
He is a Democrat, is ex-mayor of the Borough of Delford, and is at pres- 
ent a member of the Board of Freeholders. 

Mr. Cooper was married in 1892 to Miss Ella Christie. 

DANIKI. lIlvKKlNG. 

Daniel Herring an early settler of Midland Township, married and 
reared a family of seven children, live sons and two daughters, — Henry, 
Daniel, Jacob, John, Cornelius, Jane, and Tiny. He died September ?•, 
1784, aged eighty years. His wife (Margaret) died October 4, 177'), 
aged seventy-one years. 

Jacob, third son of Daniel and Margaret Herring, was also a farmer, 
an<l member of the same church as his father. He was twice married, 
first to Wilhelmina Banta, second to Susan Livingstone, by whom he 
had three children — Wilhelmina, Daniel, and Cornelius. 

Jacob's death occurred June 9, 1809, at the age of seventy-live years, 
and that of his wife i Susan ) April 1, 18.^1, at the age <if sixty-seven 
years. 

Cornelius, son of Jacob and Susan i Livingstone) Herring, was born 
April 10, 1797. He was a tailor by trade, l)ut spent the greatest i)orlion 
of his life as a farmer. 

He was married Noveml)er 27, lsl7, to Ann D. Kiker. of New York 
citv, who bore him the following children: Henry C, James, Jacob, 
Susan Ann, wife of John De Voe, of Rutherford; Daniel, John, Harry, 
Marv Jane, wife of Dr. John Turniure, of Schraalenburgh, N. J., and 
William. 

Of these, Henry C. was born Fel)ruarv '». ISl't. in the city of New 
York. During his infancy he removed with his parents to Schraalen- 
burgh, N. J., and remained at home until his marriage, which occurred 
June 19, 1839, to Helena, daughter of Joliii Cooper, Ksii.. of New Mil- 
ford, Bergen county. 

He served his townshij) as freeholder, justice of the pe.ice. etc., and 
was elected to the State Legislature for the years 1874-7.=.. He was 
vice-president of the Bergen County Farmers' Mutual I'irr Insurance 
C(jmpany, and an active member of the True Reformed Church at 
Schraalenburirh. 



o.-i2 HISTOKY OF BEKGHN COUNTY 

CHAKLES E. COLE. 

Charles E. Cole, Steward of the Berg'en County Ahnshouse, and 
son of W. H. and Anna E. ( Traver ) Cole, was born at Stanfordville. 
Dutchess county, N. Y.. June (>. 18()(). His parents are also both natives 
of Dutchess county where his father, who was a highly respected citi- 
zen, was an architect and builder. 

Mr. Cole was educated in the common schools of Brooklyn and also 
at Croton Landing-, N. Y. His business experience has been somewhat 
varied, having been for a considerable time engaged in the Fire Arms 
department of E. Remington & Son of New York city, and also with 
their successors. The Alfred Ward Davenport Co. Upon his retirement 
from the employ of this firm, he began the butchering business with his 
uncle in Brooklyn, continuing two years, subsequently becoming asso- 
ciated for a time with the Metropolitan Insurance Company. He then 
removed to Bergen county, N. J., where he became interested in farming 
and during a period of six years superintended the work of a farm. 

In 1895 Mr. Cole received the appointment to his present position, 
his amiable disposition, equable temper, together with his experience, 
making him a valuable man for the i)lace. and in which he has given 
entire satisfaction to the public. 

He was married in 1890 to Miss Elnora S. Traver, daughter of 
Ephraim Traver <if Brooklyn, N. Y. In politics Mr. Cole is independent, 
giving his support to the best man. He and his wife are Congregation- 
alists. 

H'DGK hi-:n'kv h. vookhis. 

Judge Henrv H. Voorhis became a prominent citizen of Midland 
township and spent his life on the homestead where his father Henry N., 
and grandfather Nicholas both resided. For fifty years he was active 
as an executor and administrator of estates. He was an active sup- 
])orter of Stephen A. Douglas for the presidency and when the war 
broke out in 1801, he became a warm supporter of the Union Cause. 

In 1835 he was commissioned by Governor Peter D. Vroom a justice, 
of the peace, and after serving for five years, he was again commis- 
sioned a justice of the peace by Governor Daniel Haines in i843, and 
served three years, when, by the change in the constitiition of the 
State requiring that office to be filled by election by the people, he was 
elected to the same office and served for two years. Judge Voorhis was 
elected and served in the State Legislature for the years 1848-49; was 
appointed master in chancery in 1853, and 1857 he was appointed Judge 
of the Court of Common Pleas of Bergan County, and served one term 
of five years. In 1874 he was elected freeholder of Midland township, 
which position he creditably filled for five years. Upon the construction 
of the Midland Railroad he was appointed one of the commissioners for 
appraising damages to land passed through by the road in forty-five 
cases, and was one of the incorporators of the Bergen Couaty Farmers" 
Mutual Fire Insurance Company, of which he was Secretary. 



HISTOK\ OK BEKI;KN COl'NTV .•'r.l 

JOHN H. VOOKHIS. 

Jdhn H. "\'oorhis, son of Andrew A., was born October i, 1802. ;in(l 
belonys to another branch of this same faniilv. He married Mariah 
Saloma Schoonmaker, March 2.>, 1S3(>. The result of this union was 
three children, — Euphemia. wife of Tliomas Voorhis, Elizabeth i de- 
ceased I, and John H. Mr. \'oorliis was a member of the First Presby- 
terian Church of Hackensack, as was also his wife. She died March 5. 
1S74. 

John H. \'o!)rhis was born March 5, \S.M,. He was married Nov- 
ember 23, 1858, to Anna Mariah daughter of Anna and Samuel Demu- 
rest. Thev have had three children, — Anna, Salome, and Andrew, Jr. 

COKNEI.IUS BOAKD. 

Cornelius Board emigrated to America with his wife, Elizabeth and 
two scms, David and James, and settled in Ringwood afterward called 
Boardville. where he became a large real estate owner. His son David 
succeeded to a large part of his father's estate. His son Nathaniel born 
September 27, 1775, died December 31, 1.S42. He was a participant in 
what was known as the "Whiskey War", serving as Lieutenant in that 
ferocious escapade against the Whiskey Boys of Kentucky. He was 
also in the war of 1812 being stationed for six months at Sandy Hook. 
He served in both branches of the New Jersev Legislature and was a 
man of good judgment and ability. 

He was frequently sought after as counsellor amtmg his neighbors 
and townsmen, and often selected as executor and administrator of es- 
tates. His wife, Mary Kingsland, a native of Morris county, bore him 
the following children, who grew to manhood and womanhood: Edmund 
K., John F., Mary A., wife of Daniel H. Bull, of Orange county, N. Y., 
Peter, Eleanor, (deceased), was the wife of James H. Bull, Harriet, 
wife of O. E. Maltby, of New Haven, Sarah J., wife of John C. Zabriskie, 
and David J. Board. 

Peter; son of Nathaniel Board, was born August 19, 1S0'>, on the 
Board homestead in Pompton township, where he spent his early life 
and acquired an education, being prepared for college in the Ponijjton 
Academy. 

Turning his attention to business for eight vears he was a clerk in 
general merchandise stores in the vicinity of his Inrth He married. 
May .^0, 1833, Matilda B. Zabriskie. of Midland township, who has borne 
him twf> children, — Cornelius Z. and Mary C, wife of John J. Zabriskie, 
of Ridge way. 

Mr. Board s])ent most of his active business life as a farmer; 
was a man of strcjng force of character, decided in his opinions, and of 
correct habits. He was honored by his townsmen with positions of trust. 



chaptp:r XXV. 
LODI 

GENEKAL DESCKIPTION — EARLY SETTLEMENTS — SCHOOLS — EAKLV HIGH- 
WAYS — ORGAXIZATION — CIVIL LIST — SOCIETIES, ORDEKS, ASSOCIA- 
TIONS — FIRE DEPARTMENT — MANUFACTURING INTERESTS — 
CHURCHES — BURIAL PLACES — HISTORICAL INCIDENTS AND 
REMINISCENCES — BOROUGHS OF CARLSTADT, WAI.L- 
INGTON, WOODKIDGE, HASBROUCK HEIGHTS, LIT- 
TLE FERRY — LODI VILLAGE AND BERGEN 
TOWNSHIP — BIOGRAPHICAL. 

The townshi]) of Lodi was organized in 1825, and at that time con- 
tained about 22,000 acres of land, but many changes have been made 
since then, the first being the setting off of the township of Union in 
1852. Lodi was named from a flourishing town of Italy, founded by 
the Bois, and colonized by the father of Pompeii the Oreat. Hence the 
name of Laus Pompeia, which was corrupted gradually into the cogno- 
men it bears at the present time. Lodi is celebrated for the victory of 
the French, under Bonaparte, over the Austrians, in \l')t). It is said 
that when Lafayette was at Hackensack, in 1825, that he suggested this 
name for the town of Lodi that his own might not again be brt)ught 
into such common use. 

The Poliflv road, so named from the bog meadow along which it 
passes, is a fine thoroughfare, built over two hundred years ago, and 
runs through the whole length of the township. At the time of its 
settlement, the eastern part of Lodi township was covered with a fine 
growth of cedar timber, where now it is overgrown with a coarse grass, 
which is cut and stacked in the summer, but cannot be removed until 
the ground is frozen in the winter, so as to admit of horses and wagons 
being taken out for this purpose. 

The early settlers of Lodi township were principally Dutch, many 
of them coming directly from Holland, while others were descendants 
of various families located in different parts of New Jersey and New 
York. Captain John Berry is said to have been the original owner of 
all the land in Lodi. This land was obtained by grant from Governor 
Carteret in \i>(i'). The Kipps or De Kypes, as they then spelled the 
name, came originally from France, but immediately from Holland in 
1()35, coming about 1()85 to the township of Lodi, where Hendrick in 
time bought a farm of two hundred acres on the Poliflv road. The Van 
Bussum family is known to have lived on the old homestead as early as 
Revolutionary times, but it is not certain at what date they located 
there. Theodore Van Idestine who was the first of the name to 
emigrate to America, came from Holland in 1700, his son I'eter some 
time later coming to Lodi, where he purchased a farm of one hundred 
acres on the Passaic river. The Romaines came from New Barbadoes 
about the time of the close of the Revolution, and purchased about one 



HISTORY OK BEKGEN COUNTY 355 

hundred acres nf land, ^vith mill site and water privileges <>n the Saddle 
River. The Demarest family came to Lodi township in the last century', 
although they had been in New Jersey since about lh76. Upon coming 
here, the first of the name, Stephen Demarest. purchased a homestead 
of about one hundred acres on the Polifly road. 

The island of Moonachie was purchased by three men, one of whom 
was Thomas Francis Outwater, who came here in the latter part of the 
seventeenth century, where his descendants still remain. The Terhune 
familv is a prominent one, but it is not known at what time thev located 
here. George Briukerhoff the first of this family in Lodi township, 
came from Holland in the latter i)art of the seventeenth century. He 
purchased a farm of two hundred acres, where the village of Woodridge 
now stands. Walling Van Winkle, a Hollander, was the owner of a 
farm of five hundred acres, near the city of Passaic. His deed granting 
him the land, is signed in Holland script, dated 17.34. Ji.o') Hopper also 
bought a farm of five hundred acres, extending from the Pidifly road to 
the Saddle River. 

The people of Lodi have shown their thrift and enterprise in the 
building of good roads, the Polifly being the first and also the longest. 
The other roads leading into this from Passaic, Saddle River and other 
adjoining territory, were built at an earh- date and afforded an outlet to 
the settlers of this township. The road from Passaic through Carlstadt 
to Moonachie was completed in or about 181(), while the Paterson and 
Jersev Citv Plank road, was finished about four years later and the 
Hackensack and Paterson road in 182(>. In IS.^0, the road from the vil- 
lage of Lodi to the Polifly road was opened. The New Jersey & New 
York railroad now runs through, connecting it with Jersey City and 
other parts of the State. The trolley road from Arlington to Carlstadt 
through Rutherford was opened in 1897, and connects Lodi with New- 
ark. The Paterson and Hoboken trolley also touches Carlstadt, thus 
giving Lodi the benefit of traffic with important points in all directions. 

Schools have been organized and utilized in accordance with the 
times. The various districts have been more or less changed from time 
to time to keep pace with the growth and demands of the localities in 
which thev are situated. As late as ]S4(i. the townshij) had but two 
schools and about fifty sch(dars. Since that time a great change has 
been effected both in Iniildings and the number of pupils as well as in the 
efficiency of the schools. Woodridge District erected its first building as 
early as 1801 on land owned liy John W. Berry. This house was Imiltof 
stone, one story high and twenty-five by tv.enty leel. in extent. The 
first teacher was Patrick Dillon, '['he district was about four and one- 
half miles long by three miles broad. A new housi- was nt'edi'd in 1S4.^. 
when ground was purchas„'d from Philip Berry, Jr., and a l.iry-e l)uilding 
erected. This was accomjjlished under the supervision of the "Mount 
Pleasant New School Association," the district conii)rising Rutherford 
Park, Carlstadt, Woodridge, Corona, Hasbrouck Heights. Moonachie and 
East Passaic. In 1S7.> this building gave jflace to a more modern and 



356 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

commndious structure. From time to time, it became necessary to divide 
the districts in order to accommodate the growing number. What 
became known as the Moonachie District opened its tirst school in the 
kitchen of Peter Allen, where it was conducted during the winter months 
only, the first teacher being Thomas Stephenson. The first building 
was erected in 1832, and had long desks and slab seats. This house did 
service forty years, when it was replaced by a fine modern structure. 

The school in the village of Lodi, had a small beginning of only 
twelve scholars, in a little house seventeen feet by twenty, and furnished 
with long desks and slab seats. Nicholas Terhune was the first teacher. 
In 1853. a new house became necessary. The first house was on the farm 
of Jacob H. Hopper, but the last one was on land donated by Robert 
Rennie. Mr. Merritt was the first teacher. 

When Carlstadt was organized in 1S53, it contained a part of the 
most southerly district of the township, and in 1865, it became necessar}- 
to secure more commodious quarters when they purchased four lots and 
erected a two story building with a frontage of twenty-five feet and 
thirty-two feet deep, adding a hall sixteen by ten feet. In 1874 they 
built an annex to this, sixty-two by thirty-two feet, at a cost of over 
eight thousand dollars. This serves to show how rapidly the township 
developed in substantial directions. 

The Little Ferry District was formed in 1875, when they secured 
ground and built a brick building at a cost of twenty-five hundred dol- 
lars. The school was opened on November 29, with Miss Brinkerhoff of 
Hackensack as teacher and an enrollment of thirty-two pupils recorded. 

* HISTORICAL INCIDENTS .\ND REMINISCENCES. 

Earlv in the history of New Jersey Captain John Berry, gentleman; 
received a grant of all the land lying between the Boiling Spring at 
Rutherford, the Passaic River, Saddle River, Cherry Hill, and the 
Hackensack River. This grant included the land within the present 
township of Lodi. It is probable that Captain Berry built the Poli- 
fly road, the oldest in the township, expecting to sell the land ad- 
joining it for farms and building lots. He parceled out his land on the 
west side of this road into sections, extending back to the Passaic 
River and Saddle River. The buyers of these were the ancestors of 
manv of the present leading citizens of Lodi township. 

The proximitv of Lodi township to the camping-ground of the 
Hessians during the Revolution rendered the inhabitants subject to 
manv depredations on the part of the latter. The district of Moonachie 
was nearlv depopulated on account of the ravages of bands of Hes- 
sians from New York. There is scarcely a representative of an 
old family in Lodi township who cannot relate harrowing tales of hun- 
ger, flight by night, burying of valuables in the earth, told him by his 
grandsire from persimal experience during the struggle for inde])endence 
one hundred years ago. 

At the old Hopper homestead on the Polifly road a division of sol- 

'Kr.iin Hi-liHA of Hi-ij;eii and Passaic Counties. 



HISTOKY OK BEKGK.V COUNTY . 357 



(Hers made themselves at hume tor a nuinlier of weeks, the officers sleep- 
iiiir in the house, and the eominoii soldiers under the trees in the orchard 
immediately back of the house. One nig-ht Mrs. Hopper was awakened 
from her slumbers by a noise among the pigs in the pig-pens. Mrs. 
Hopper at t)nce aroused the officers and requested them to investigate 
the causes of the disturbance. They thereupon ran out into the dark- 
ness in the direction of the sounds and discovered one of their own men 
in the act of carrying off a struggling pig. Considering the miscreant 
as a poacher on their own preserves, the officers flogged him soseverelv 
that neither he nor any of his comrades ever afterwards repeated the 
experiment. It is not related whether Mrs. Hopper's pleasure at the 
rescue was of long duration, but it is probable that His Majesty's officers 
had as keen an appetite for pork as their subordinates, and that the pigs 
were soon a thing of the past. 

The Hessians made many expeditions into Moonachie, and on such 
occasions were accustomed to fire into dwelling houses regardless of the 
danger to the lives of women and cliildren. ( )n one of their raids thev 
stabbed in the back and killed old Abraham Allen as he was trying to 
escape from them. A single incident worthy of note occurred here in 
the Revolution. A party of Hessians had stolen all the cows for miles 
around, and ^j'ere driving them to their boat on the Hackensack, followed 
bv a band of angry farmers. Arriving there they found to their dismay 
the tide low and their boat, on which they intended to embark, high and 
dry. The cattle were at once abandoned. Many of the Hessians were 
killed by shots from their pursuers, or drowned in attempting to swim 
the river. The ammunition of the farmers gave out after a few shots, 
or not one of the plunderers would have escaped. 

William Berry a descendant of John Berry settled near the village 
of Carlstadt, where he owned considerable real estate, and settled a 
homestead, which has been in the family since, a period of about one 
hundred and fifty years. 

His children were John, born in IT.^d; Albert, born in 175'); Marv, 
born in 17f)l; Jane, born in 17f>,^; Albert (2). born in ]7(i(); Elizabeth, 
born in 177(1; John W., 1)orn in 1772: Sarah, born in 177.^; and Kleanor. 
liorn in 1 77(i. 

<)f these children. John W. Herry, of Moonachie, resided ujion the 
homestead during his life, dying February'*, 1S5'>. He lived in the old 
house by theloA' lands until 1825, when he built on or near its site a 
stone house, which was burned in 1873. His wile, whom In- married 
February 2.^, 17'»4, was Elizabeth Terhune, who was born ( )ctober I'l. 
177,\ and died May .^l. 1S57. 'i'lie children of this union were I'^liza- 
beth, wife of Cornelius Banta, William, Ste])hen, Albert. Sarah, wife of 
Nichidas Terhune, Stephen i2i, Letitia, wife of John II. Ackerman. 
Mary, wife of Enoch BrinkerholT, and J<din I. 

Originally the area of the townshi]) of Lodi was large but within 
recent years one townshi]! and six boroughs hawlieen fornu'd from it' 
territory leaving but a remnant that formerly belonged to it. Like that 



358 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

of the township of Bergen it has been almost contracted to death. Con- 
tinual secessions have tinallv forced its area within a small com])ass. 
The Moonachie road on the south and that of Calico or Turkey Neck 
on the north togfether with the Hackensack plank road, and line running- 
parallel with the old Poliflv road about one thousand feet east of the 
railroad- stand for its east and west boundary lines, with the Little Ferry 
boroug-h left out, is all that remains of this once large and important 
township. In justice, however, it must be stated, that Lodi township 
with its Philippine Colony of "Lodi Park'", in the vicinity of Garfield, 
is one of the townships in existence, that has use for a foreign policy. 
Its official vote of November, 18')8, was seventy-one. 

CIVIL LIST. 

There are no records of elections previous to 1 8h2, with the excep- 
tion of freeholders, which are given since the organization of the town- 
ship. 

1.S27, Henry W. Kingsland, Joseph Budd; '28, William C. Kings- 
land; "28-29, Samuel H. Berry; '29-30, Henry P. Kipp; '.>0 Abraham I. 
Berry; '31-.32, Cornelius G. Brinkerhoff; '31-32, '37, Michael Van 
Winkle; '33-34, '38-39, (George Kingsland, Peter H. Kipp; '35, John A. 
Berry; '35-3(>. Richard Cutwater; '3(), Martin Romeyn; '37, Peter A. 
Kipp; '40-43, David E. Van Bussum; '40-42, Jacob J. Brinkerhoff; '43-45 
'54-56, Richard Berdan; '44-46, Jacob H. Hopper; '46-48, Enoch I \'ree- 
land; '47-49, '52-53, John Huyler; '49-.S1, "5()-58. David Ackerman; '50-51, 
James L. Van Winkle; '52-54, Enoch Hopper; '57-59, James J. Brink- 
erhoff; '59-61-64, Daniel Romaine; '60-()2, Abraham K. Ackerman; '62, 
63, Abraham Kipp; '63, John P. Outwater; '64-(.(>. Geo. W. Conklin; '6(), 
Richard Terhune; '67, Walling Kipp; 68, John Richard Vreeland; 
'68-69, Isaac H. Schoonmaker; '69-74, John Van Bussam; '70 Henry 
Kipp; '75-77, Theodore F. Muehling; '78-83, John F'eitner; '83-87, Max 
Mathe; '87-93; John H. Outwater; '93-99, John Van Bussam; '9<», James 
W. Mercer. 

MOON.VCHIE. 

To a district of excellent farming land, al)out one mile southeast 
of Little Ferry, and two miles to the west of Carlstadt, is given the 
name of Moonachie. It was so named in memory of Moonachie, the 
chief of a tribe of Indians, a branch of the Six Nations, who occupied 
this region. Over two hundred years ago Thomas Francis Outwater, a 
Mr. Brinkerhoff, and a Mr. Kipp bought the so-called island of Moon- 
achie of Captain John Berry, paying seven hundred pounds for it. This 
"island" was located between Berry's Creek, Indian Path, Losing 
Creek, and the Hackensack River; The Indians who peopled it at that 
time were said to be very friendly to the whites. The land was covered 
with valuable cedar timber till within a few years. Moonachie was 
for a time known as Peach Island, on account of the large quantities of 
peaches produced here. This name is no longer applicable, as scarcely 
a peach-tree can now l)e found in this region. Just at the. junction of 
.Moonachie with the township of Union is located a hotel, known as 



HISTORY UK BICKCEN COUNTY 3j9 

the Half-Way House. It has long marked the point of bisection of the 
Paterson phiuk-road from Paterson to Jersey City. The people of Moon- 
achie are generally farmers, their principal production being garden 
products, which they sell in the markets of New York and Jersey City. 
A Baj)tist chapel was built here in 1871 at a cost of about one 
thousand dollars. This was during the pastorate of Rev. John A. Mc- 
Kean, in the church at Rutherford Park. After a few years this was 
abandoned by the Baptists and at present the Presbyterians and Luther- 
ans are occupying the house. 

THE VII.I..\GE OF LITTLE KEKKV. 

The village of Little Ferry occupies the northeastern portion of 
the old township of Lodi. It has always been an isolated part of that 
township, aside from its legislative restrictions and naturally sought 
independence through the formation of a borough. Brickmaking is the 
only industrv and the facilities for the shipping of this product by water 
are excellent. The borough has a population of about fifteen hundred 
people. Its official vote for November 1898 was one hundred and fifty. 
James Pickens one of the promoters of the village came there a few 
years before the civil war, and under his influence the private school 
system was changed into the public one. They now have a commodious 
school building and employ five teachers. The house was erected about 
1878, Mr. Pickens also fostered the religious influences of the place, 
establishing a flourishing Sabbath school which resulted in the building 
of a house oi worship, the corner stone of which was laid on Easter day 
April 2, 1899. Mr. Pickens kept the tollgate and had the post ofiice 
from 1873 until his death in 1896. 

The first brick yards in Little Ferry were owned b}- Shower & Cole 
in 1872. This enterprise, however, did not prove successful, and the 
business soon passed into the hands of John Thume. He in turn was 
succeeded in a short time by the Mehrhofs in 1877. Since then this in- 
dustry has thriven. The buildings in which the bricks are burned, 
have been enlarged, and new appliances have been added until to-day 
the industrv is next to the largest of its kind in the United States. 

For a term of years the business was carried (m under the name of 
.Mehrhof Brothers Manufacturing Company, the officers being Nicholas 
.Mehrhof, president; Peter Mehrhof, treasurer; Philij) Mehrhof, secretary. 
The plant went into the hands of a receiver in 1S9.=;, but the i)roperty 
was leased from the Hackensack Bank and ojieraled since, under the 
name of Mehrhof Brick Company. Last year they manufactured two 
million two hundred thousand brick, and eni])loye(l about two hundred 
men. 

The inii)etus given tliis industry in l^ittle j-'erry \>y the .Mehrhof 
Brothers brought other manufacturers to the place. James W. (iillies. 
The Gardner Brothers, Charles Walsh, Edward Snmlto, I. & W. Felter, 
each of which companies have established plants, the total output 
beinuf about one hundred million bricks annually. 



360 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

Philip Mehrhof started business in 1896 with a ten years lease on a 
plant formerly owned by B. L. W. Hanfeld. He employs thirty-five 
men, and his yard has a capacity of five million annually, N. Mehrhof 
& Son have a capacity of ten million and eni])loy seventy-five men. 
They organized in ISSl. 

I. & W. Felter org-anized in 1886. Walsh, Gardner Brother and 
James W. (lillies each started their yards in 1884-'85. 

The Borough of Little Ferry was organized in the summer of 1894, 
the first election of officers having been held in November of that year. 
The first officers were : James Pickens, Mayor; Samuel Hanson, Charles 
Kiel, (reorge D. Mehrhof, Louis Bausbach, J. Adams Eckel, Jacob Vogt, 
Council; E. M. Mehrhof, Clerk; Silas B. Gardner, Assessor; J. Irvin 
Pickens, Collector. Irvin Felter was the second mayor and was follow- 
ed in March i899 by the present officers : J. Adam Eckel, Mayor; Wil- 
liam Kingsley, Clerk; Samuel Hanson, Charles Kiel, Abram Derunde, 
Jacob Vogt, Louis Bausbach, Hugh H. Eckel, C(nmcil; Abram Woods, 
Assessor; August Werkhaus, Collector. 

THE MEHRHOF BROTHERS. 

The Mehrhof Brothers were the founders of the brick making indus- 
try of Little Ferry. ]>road minded, comprehensive men, filled with pub- 
lic spirited motives, it became a matter of easy solution for them tn 
inaugurate the business they have so successfully carried on in that part 
of the county. 

Philip, the father of this family, left Hesse Darmstadt, Germany, in 
1841, for America, locating at Croton Point where he continued business 
for some years as an architect. He finally moved to a farm in Oneida 
county. New York, where he lived until his death, which occurred in 
1S()9. The three sons, Nicholas, Peter and Philip, were all born in Hesse 
Darmstadt, Germany, the oldest in 18.^0, Peter in 1836 and Philip in 1839. 
At the age of fourteen years, Nicholas and his two brothers in company 
with their sister and mother, sailed for America. This was in 1844, and 
almost immediately the brothers began their career, the brick making 
industry, working for A. Underbill. In 1856 Nicholas Mehrhof became 
superintendent of Mr. Underbill's yard and remained in that ca])acity 
until 1877, when he came here. He married Hester Ann Oakley, of 
Croton Point, and lives in Hackensack. 

Peter Mehrhof was the first to come to I^ittle Ferry. While in New 
York state he spent i)art of the time with his father on the farm, and 
upon his arrival here in 1871 purchased one hundred and twenty acres of 
of land which was the beginning of their business at this place. Mr. 
Peter Mehrhof has filled several offices in his town, having held that of 
town committeeman nine years, and township treasurer seven years. He 
has been married twice. His first wife was Miss Eh'eline Dodd. His 
])res^'nt wife was a Miss Dick. 

rnil.II' MKHKHOF 

Philip Mehrhof, the well-known brick manufacturer, at Little 
Ferry, was born in Hesse Darmstadt, Germany, January 23, 183'». When 



HISTOKY OF BEKC;EN COUNTY 361 

four years old his father, Niehnhis Mehrhof, came to America and lo- 
cated eventually at Crotou Point, N. Y., f^oing subsequently on a farm 
in Oneida county, where he died in 1S()'). He was an architect, formerly, 
but au agriculturist in later years. Young Philip attended school until 
sixteen years of age, working in the summer at the brick making indus- 
try. When twenty-one years of age he began the manufacture of staves 
l\>r barrels for the Syracuse lumber market, but two years thereafter 
returned to Crotou Landing, where he managed the brick yard of Harris 
H. Cox, for nine years. Following this came two years' foremanship for 
Orrin Frost's brick 3'ard in New York city, and two years more in the 
same position at Croton Point, and in 1.S75 he came to Little Ferry, 
where he commenced, on a larger scale than ever, with his brothers, 
and with whom he C(jntinued until 1S')5, when he started business on his 
own account. 

On the 23d of April, 1S()2, Mr. Mehrhof was married to Margaret 
Hare, of Newburg, N. Y., and with whom he lived thirty-two years, when 
she died. Two years later he was married to Miss Alice Hunniken, 
daughter of John Marshall, of Ridge tield Park, N. J., the well-known 
florist and nurseryman, of that place. 

Mr. Mehrhof is a member of the Odd Fellows Lodge, is also a 
member of the Royal Arcanum. He loves a good horse and is fond of 
yachting. He has a delightful home. 

BEKGEN TOWNSHIP. 

The old township of Bergen was important in territorial area in 
this history of the county, and in tradition. The new Bergen town- 
ship is now but a patch of meadow land of very small extent, lying 
opposite Woodbridge just east of the old P(difly road ha\ing at this 
time only dl official votes. It is, therefore, the smallest townshii) in the 
county. 

Originally, howerer it was made to include the town of Carlstadt, 
Woodridge, Wallington and Moonachie, and the voters of the old town- 
ship are still entitled to a freeholder. It was created a turnpike at the 
time Mr. (ieorge Zimmermannwas in the Legislature, and was organized 
on March 18, 1893, and in Zimmermann's hotel two days after organiz- 
ing the following officers of the town were elected. Town Clerk, Alfred 
(iramlich; Assessor, Adolph Kruger; Collector, (ieorge Zimmerniann; 
Freeholder, Frantz Fritsch; Town Committee, John McMahon, J. F. 
Feitner, F. Kohbertz. Mr. Fritsch has l)een freeholder of the town six 
years. 

The i)resent officers are: Chosen Freeholder, Adolph Kruger; Col- 
lector , Charles Beck; Town Committee: Alfred Harry, Peter La Place, 
Joseph Linden; Assessor, Pius Crueter; Clerk, Ch;irles Link. 

\'ir,LAGES .\ND HAMLICTS. 

The village of Carlstadt is one of the largest in the county, having 
a po])ulation of 2200 based upon the last official vote which was 4S(». The 
land on which it stands is laid out in rectangles bounded by streets. l-"orm- 
erlv the village was called Tailor Town from the fact that nianv of the 



362 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY • 

inhal)it;ints bntli men and women were engag^ed in sewing- for New York 
tailors. In 1.S51 the land here, was purchased of John Earl by a society 
of workmen, knovvti as the German Democratic Land Association. In 
1855 there were only two stores, now there are more than a score. The 
villag-e of Carlstadt is largely engaged in manufacturing, nearly half of 
its population beingemployed in its various factories. In 1893 Carlstadt 
became a part of Bergen township and in 1894 it was organized into a 
borough with John Oehler as its first mayor. George Zimmermann was 
next elected to that office and by common consent has held that position 
ever since. Through interests best calculated to promote the growth of 
the village, since its organization into a borough, three annexations 
have been made, one of which was the extension of its territory to in- 
clude that of theMoonachie district. The other addition extends to the 
short cut railroad in the other direction, while the third was to present 
boundary line between this village and that of Woodridge. 

In Carlstadt the name of the buildings, the hotel signs and the ad- 
vertisements are largely in the German language, which is used almost 
exclusively in the pulpit, the school and the family. 

The social spirit of this people is maintained in a variety of asso- 
ciations. About the year 1872 a dramatic club was organized to which 
the name "Concordia" was given. Its membership is large, and it 
meets in a hall decorated with emblems appropriate to the character of 
the exercises. 

About 1880 an Odd Fellows lodge was organized with Charles Fo- 
wald as the first N. G. and John Bedenkopf as secretary. It was 
named after the illustrious German poet, Wieland Lodge, and is No. 
113 in the Odd Fellows' Lodge of New Jersey. 

The Fire-Department of this village is well equipped with engine. 
truck and hose. It was organized in 1872, and is under a governing 
power of a Board of Commissioners. 

The present postmaster of the village is Jacob H. LTllman. 

Following is a sketch of Carlstadt by Hermann Foth, first ])ub- 
lished in the "Illustrated Rutherford," and reprinted here by per- 
mission. 

CAKLSTADT. 

"The village of Carlstadt, known to many readers of the New York 
Dailies as "the beautiful little German Village on the hill," is situated 
upon the ridge of land separating the Hackensack and Passaic valleys, 
ten miles northwest from the post office in New York city, within 
twenty minutes' ride by the Naw Jersey & New York, and New York, 
Lake Erie & Western Railroads. Looking from the ridge towards the 
south gives a splendid view of the New York Bay and Statue of Liberty 
and towards the north, of the beautiful Passaic valleys including the 
city of Passaic and the Orange mountains in the back ground. 

A number of German residents of New York city most of whom 
emigrated to the United States to exercise political liberty, and who de- 
sired more healthv and comfortable homes in the country formed in 1851 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 363 

an association known as the (lerman Duniocratic Land Association. 
The urirjinization was perfected A])ril 27, 1.SS3 with the following- offi- 
cers: President, Carl Klein; Vice-President, Alexander Lang-; Treas- 
urer, Ignatz Kappner. The latter was a Polish refugee and accom- 
panied Kossuth from his home to Constantinople and thence to tliis 
country. Other prominent founders were Lewis Foth, John Ructtinger, 
Frederick Merkel, Charles Treppke, William Maass, Valentine Dietrich, 
Henry Dechert, John, Jacob and Joseph Fortenbach and Charles 
Trassbach. 

The Association after searching in the vicinity of New York for 
suitable property for a village settlement resolved to purchase from John 
L. Earle, executor of the Abraham L Berry estate, the present site of 
Carlstadt. They bought 140 acres for S16,0(IU. 

The land was divided into three sections, and each section sub- 
divided into lots. Each of the 240 members received seven lots bv allot- 
ment, two on the highest part of the ridge, two below the ridge and 
three in the lowlands, at a cost of $70. 

Papers of incorporation were executed February 24, 1S.S4. The 
projector of the village was Dr. Carl Klein, and in honor of him the vil- 
lage was named Carlstadt. After the settlement here numerous other 
organizations purchased adjoining tracts of land and laid them out in 
building lots constituting the villages of New Carlstadt, Woodridge, 
Hasbrouck Heights and Boiling Springs, and this has been without 
doubt the cause of the prosperity of the present thriving- Borough of 
Rutherford. 

Carlstadt is compactly built, all parts of it being within tivo minutes 
walk of the depot of the New Jersey and New York Railroad, and within 
fifteen minutes of the New York, Lake Erie and Western Railroad. 
Twenty-six trains stop at Carlstadt daily ; on Sundays there are ten 
trains, and the accommodations on the N. Y. L. E. and W. R. R. are 
more extensive, there being twenty-eight trains each way daily, and six- 
teen trains each way on Sundays. Monthly commutation tickets are sold 
tm both railroads at $5.35, and fifty trip family tickets at $7.50. 

The growth of the town has been g-radual and steady, its present 
population is between 2500 and 3000. The inhabitants are a progres- 
sive and industrious class, and the town presents a thriving New-Eng- 
land-like appearance. 

Its chief industries in the way of manufacturing are: S. Klaber cSL- 
CiK. .Marble and Onyx Works. It might be mefitioned here that they 
do <|uite some of Tiffany & Co.'s work, and build some of the linest 
(vnvx and marble church pulpits. Justus Nehler, manufacturer of 
ladies' shoes. Watch Case, S])ring & Tool Co., are manufacturers of 
watch case springs. The Silk Controller Manufacturing Co., Charles 
H. Levy & Herman Schultze, proprietors. This com])any has been 
recently organized and has bright prosi)ects for success. The \'iiK an 
Hardware Co., manufacturers of wire gauges. August (ierecke is presi- 
dent, (k'bhardt Fritsch's wax bleacherv and niainifajturv of lin- 



3(>4 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

decorated \va.\ candles f(ir church purposes. Theodore Muehlins^' manu- 
facturer of seg'ars. 

Other industries are the manufactuie of artificial ffowers and mak- 
ing' of ladies' white g-oods. 

In 1854 only two stores existed, which have since increased to a 
considerable number and now supply the neighboring- smaller towns.- 

Carlstadt is supplied with water by the Hackensack Water Works, 
and its streets are lighted by electricity. Negotiations are pending for 
the supply of gas from the Rutherford Gas Company. It is protected bv 
an efficient Fire Department and Police Force. 

It possesses a large Public School accommodating 500 children. In 
it the English and German languages are taught by competent and 
experienced teachers. Thirty years ago the only school existing was 
a half a mile above the present village on the Polifly road, which was 
frequented by all the children of the neig^hborhood some of whom were 
obliged to walk two miles. The new settlement of Carlstadt gradually 
increased and in 1865 the old building became too limited in its dimen- 
sions. The villagers then made strenuous efforts to have an edifice 
erected sufficiently large to supply the demand for comfortable space, 
but differences arose in selecting the site and as a consequence the then 
existing district was divided leaving Carlstadt a school district bv it- 
self, to build as it .cht)se. To accomplish this the Trustees, in l.S()5, 
purchased four lots in the village and received authority to erect a two 
story brick building 35 feet front by 32 feet deep with an addition 10 by 
1() feet to be used as a hallway. On October 4, 18()5, the corner stone 
was laid and in 1866, the building was completed at a co.,t of four 
thousand three hundred and five dollars. The school increased so stead- 
ily in numbers that more space was required and the Trustees were 
forced to enlarge. An addition was built 62 by 32 feet which was ready 
for use in February 1874 and cost eight thousand two hundred and 
forty three dollars. Six rooms are furnished with modern improve- 
ments and are heated by a hot water apparatus. Through the 
strenuous eiTorts of the late principal, Richard Geppert, a Kinder- 
garten department was established in 1875, which has become very 
popular. This in all probability was the first Kindergarten in a public 
school of New Jersey and most likely of this country. Specimens of 
work of this Kindergarten were exhibited at the Centennial Exhibition 
in 1876 and at the New Orleans Exposition in 1886. Besides this 
department there is a Primary, an Intermediate and a (Grammar 
department in which besides the regular course of studies. Manual 
Training was introduced in September, 1891. The school ranks as one 
of the best in the county and its pupils have in many instances 
attained a high degree of sclKjlarship. Mr. A. F. Schem is the present 
principal and Mr. Jacob Moench the German teacher. 

There are three churches, Presbyterian, Lutheran and Catholic. A 
weekly newspaper the "Carlstadt Freie Presse" is published in the Ger- 
man lanyuatre. 



HISTOKV Ol" liKKCKN COUNTY .iC).-^ 

The inhabitants here have manifested a social spirit in the forma- 
tinn and maintenance of a variety of associations. 

A trymnastic association, the " Carlstadt Turn \'erein," which is the 
oldest, was organized in i857 and incorporated in February 1S(,4. The 
members meet for exercise once a week and the association entertains a 
drawing school and juvenile classes for gvmnastics. From the abdvu it 
will be seen that athletics received attention early in the history of Carl- 
stadt. The association is a link of the "North American Turner Bund." 

Twenty-two years ago a Dramatic Club was organized under the 
name "Concordia". Pla3's by well known authors arc presented semi- 
monthly. A choir, the Concordia Mannerchor which is a section meets 
for exercise once a week. The latter has participated in several Saen- 
gerfests and brought laurels for the society. 

Among the different beneficial associations Wieland Lodge, No. ii.> 
I. (). O. F. of New Jersey is the oldest here, having been organized about 
twelve years ago and was named after the illustrious German poet. 
Branches of the Chosen Friends, United Friends, Germania Sterbe-Kasse 
and other orders exist. TheG. A. R. is represented bj' Custer Post No. 17. 

The village is governed by. a President and a Board of Trustees. A 
great many of the streets are curbed, guttered, macadamized and lined 
with flagged sidewalks which are bordered with shade trees. A resident 
here may have in his house all the conveniences which he has in the 
city. Ant)ther of Carlstadt's many advantages is a booming Building 
and Ivoan Association." — Herm.an Fotii. 

M.VNUl'ACTUKIXG INTICK IvSTS. 

John B. Fortenbach a native of Germany, born in ISd.;. and now 
living at the age of ninety-five years, came to this country in 1S47. and 
to Carlstadt about ten years later. He became the head of the great 
Watch Case Manufacturing Co., in Carlstadt. He and his sons Jacob 
and Joseph Fortenbach operated this plant several years beginning at 
the close of the war and at one time employed about four hundred men 
and manufactured as many as eight hundred silver watch cases daily. 
The factory was eventually leased for a term of six years for live thousand 
dollars per year, after which it went into disuse. 

The Cragin Manufacturing Co., are now in charge of this jjlant for 
the manufacture of Japanned Cloth, Hatters (ilaze and Specialties, 
They have had the business about two years and employ from fifteen 
to twenty men. 

(iebhard Fritsch's Wax Bleachery and Manufacturv of line di-coraled 
candles for church purposes was established here in lS(i7. 

In 1890, the father died and the business was sold to Smith Nicholas 
of New York. Mr. F'ritsch being retained as sujierintendent of the 
works. The Company employ about forty men and manufacture about 
20(1, (MM) candles annually. 

C.y.KMAS pi\'Ksbvti:ki.\n ciukcii, caki.stadt. 

The First German Presbyterian Church of Carlstadt, ( the first 
Church organization of the town ) was organized on Wednesday even- 



36f) HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

ing', Aug-ust 18, 1S()9, with thirty-two members. The first elders of the 
congregation were J. H. Boking and J. H. Deppert, the Rev. Albert J. 
Winterick being the first pastor. His pastorate extended from August 
19, 1869, until April 16, 1871. The congregation met in Woodridge 
schoolhouse in the near vicinity until under the pastorate of Rev. F. 
Kern a church building was erected on the border of what was called 
Old Carlstadt, corner Division avenue and Third street, in the year 1871, 
the church being dedicated on the 17th of December 1871, by the Rev. J. 
U. Guenther of the First German Presbyterian Church of Newark, N. 
J. The dedication sermon was from the forty-fifth psalm. 

Carlstadt and surroundings have always proved to be a poor field 
for evangelical work and in consequence of this fact there could only 
be expected a very slow growth of the church work. The pastorate 
of the Rev. F. Kern extended from the year 1872, January 2, until May 
28, 1876. The following pastors served the church in succession: Revs. 
F. O. Zesch from July 14, 1876, until April 30, 1883; Emil Hering, 
December i7, 1883 until August 3, 1888; Louis Rymarski, June 28, 1898 
until September 18, 1891; Augustus Lange September 24, 1892 until 
August 25, 1893. The Rev. F. J Kraushaar was installed as the present 
pastor of the church on the 15th of February, 1894. The church has now 
a membership of one hundred scholars, a Sunday school of one hundred 
and a Ladies' Society of about forty members. 

Directly north of the Carlstadt cemetery there is a very old private 
burial-ground, that of the Berry family. There are five stones here with 
the following inscription: 

In memory of Philip Berry, who departed this life September 25th, 
1793, aged 72 years, 1 month and 4 days. 

Remember, man, as thou goes by. 
As thou art now so once was I, 
As I am now so must thou be: 
Prepare for death and follow me. 
In memory of Catharine Berry, who departed this life August 14, 
1803, aged 78 years, 2 months, and 6 days. 

Hier Jut, Begraven, Hermanus Vogelsang, Oud:32: Jaar, Gestorven 
19: December: Aa 1797, Van: Holland. 

Philip Berry, born July 4, 1763, died December 22, 18.§,0. 
In memory of Eve Van Winkle, wife of Philip Beri^y, who departed 
this life April 1(), 1843, aged 70 years, 5 months, and 25 days. 

THE C.\KLSTADT MUTUAL LOAN AND BUILDING ASSOCIATION. 

The Carlstadt Mutual Loan and Building Association was founded 
in May 1890. It is an institution which owes its existence and present 
unbounded success almost wholly to the untiring efforts of Mr. George 
Zimmermann who was the prime mover and its sole supporter for years. 
Eventually the leading men of Carlstadt took hold of the enterprise and 
Mr. John G. Niederer was elected president ; Adolph Kruger, secretary, 
and George Zimmermann, treasurer. 




GKOUGK ZIMMKKMANN 



,(^g HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 



The present officers are: John Oehler, president ; Charles Ziegler, 
vice-president; George Zimniermann, treasurer; Adolph Kruger, secre- 
tary and Charles Albertine, recording secretary. 

■ The association is capitalized at $120,800,84, and has a membership 
of three hundred persons. It is a substantial institution of Carlstadt 
and is one of the most prominent and useful institutions in this part of 
the country. 

GAKKET HOPPEK. 

Carret Hopper who was of Holland origin, purchased a large tract 
of land, extending from the Hackensack River to Slaughter Dam, some 
five hundred acres of which became the homestead of the family. He 
was a member of the church in Hackensack as early as 1792. His son, 
Jacob Hopper, had his residence on the property on the Pohfly road, 
leading from the Paterson turnpike to Carlstadt. Jacob Hopper s wife 
was Cornelia, who bore him the following children: Katrina, wife of 
John Earle, who died in the beginning of the Revolutionary war; Henry 
Carret and John I. settled on the homestead, which was divided between 
them, the latter occupying the homestead part; and Elizabeth, wife of 
Cornelius Terhune, grandson of John Terhune, the progenitor of the 
Terhune family, and who settled where Sheriff Jacob C. Terhune resided 
in 1881, upon coming to this country. Jacob Hopper died about IMS, 
aged eighty-eight. ^^^^ ^ ^^^^^^^^ 

John I. Hopper, his grandson was born in 1775, and died m 1833, on 
the homestead where he resided during his whole life. His wife was 
Maria, daughter of Albert Terhune, who died January i 1857, aged 
seventy-six years. Their children were Cornelia, wife of John Terhune, 
a farmer and miller of New Barbadoes, who died in 1879, aged seventy- 
nine • Altia, widow of Albert A. Brinkerhoff, of Hackensack ; Catharine, 
wife'of Jonathan Hopper, a merchant of Paterson; Albert died in 
7833, aged twentv-four ; Jacob I.; John, a lawyer of Paterson; Ehza; 
Maria wife of Henry Demarest of New. York; Jane, wife of Dr. 
Wilson, of New York, both of whom are deceased. 

John I. Hopper was drafted to serve the war of 1812 but urnished 
•I substitute. He is said to have used springs on his wagon the hrst of 
^ny one who carried products to a New York market. In 1818 he erected 
the elec^ant brownstone house on the premises known subsequently as 
Terrace Avenue. Jacob I. Hopper, his son, was born on the homestead 
in 1810. He was united in marriage in 1835 to Ann, daughter of Garret 
Merselis and Leah DeGray of Preakness.- Passaic c<.unty,N J. He was 
born December 13, 1812. Their children were John and Ellen. 

HON. GEORGE ZIMMEKM.\NN. 

Some years since the New York W..rld published photographs of 
one hundred notables of the State of New Jersey. Among this list we 
find the picture of the Hon. George Zimmermann, who because of his 
prominence in political and official life is entitled to a place among that 
number Mr. Zimmermann has probably been advanced more rapidly 




JOHN K. KKITNKK 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY ?if>9 

than ordinarily falls to the lot of young men because of the public spirit 
he has always manifested. 

He was born in New York city in 1857, the family removinir to 
Carlstadt the same year. In 18 73 his father purchased of Adam Rut- 
tenger the property now known as Zimmermann's Hotel, then a farm- 
house, and an old landmark of the locality, probably a hundred years 
old. Here Mr. Zimmermann has demonstrated his capacity as a busi- 
ness man both in the real estate and insurance business, while showing- 
a public spirited interest in his locality, resulting in his election to yar- 
ious offices of trust. 

When twenty-one years of age Mr. Zimmermann was elected to his 
first office, serying the public in one important capacity or another ever 
since. It was in 187'^» he was made Clerk of the township of Lodi. 
Subsequently certain irregularities were discoyered in the books of the 
township collector and a change in the office was demanded by a popular 
uprising of the people, and being preyailed upon to accept the nomin- 
ation he was elected by an overwhelming majority. He was next ap- 
pointed by President Cleveland postmaster in 1885, without opposition, 
and the able manner in which he conducted this office gave universal 
satisfaction. 

Having successfully met all official requirements, he was nominated 
for Assembly in 188<^» and elected bv a large majority. He has twice 
filled the office 'of Assemblyman, holding that place when the noted 
Reform Ballot Act was passed, and during the many heated controver- 
sies he was always found true to the interests of his constituents. In 
1898 he was again nominated for the Assembly but was snowed under in 
commcm with all aspirants of his party almost everywhere. In 1897 he 
was elected Mayor of his borough and is discharging the duties of that 
office at this time to the entire satisfaction of all. 

Mr. Zimmermann has successfully filled the office of Fire Commis- 
sioner, president of the Fire Department, and also Chief of the Dc])art- 
ment. He is ft)under of the Carlstadt Mutual Loan and Building Asso- 
ciation, a highly successful institution which particularly owes its exist- 
snce to his good judgment and persevering spirit. As a real estate man 
Mr. Zimmermann has been very successful, while socially, there is no 
Lodge or Club in Carlstadt that does not seek his followship as a mem- 
ber of their organization. 

JOHN l-KANCIS I'lUTMCK. 

Something over a hundred years ago, John Jacol) .Vstor, John V. 
Feitner and a Mr. Phillips set sail together from Waldorf, a mountain 
village in (iermany for the shores of America. The name of .\stor is 
well known. Phillips died in the jjoor-house, but Feitner left a hand- 
some fortune and descendants, who like their ])r()genitor, i>ossess many 
of the sterling qualities of which that name is a synonynin. 

Feitner purchased a large tract of land extending from the Hloom- 
ingclale road, now Broadway, to the riviT. .\stor ]>urchasi(l on the np- 



HISTORY OK bkk<;kn COI'NTY 371 

posite side of the Feitner Lane. The old Feitner homestead was at 
Fortv-sixth street and Broadway. 

Mr. Feitner married Miss Catherine Ann Kellar, and there children 
were Peter, George, Charles, Daniel, Catherine, Elizabeth, John, 
Francis and Hannah, all of whom are now dead. 

Peter, the father of the subject of this sketch, married .Marie, 
daug'hter of John and Sarah Hunt, whose g-rand-father was one of 
Washing-ton's body guard, and an old naval soldier in the war of 1S12, 
with Commodore Decatur on the old Constitution, at Algiers. The 
homestead of Peter F. Feitner was on Ninth Avenue and Feitner's Lane. 
John F. Feitner, of Moonachie Avenue, was an only child. He was 
born in the city of New York, March 2, 1826. His youth and early man- 
hood was spent in the city and doubtless had he remained there he would 
have become a distinguished factor in the political history of the Great 
Metropolis of to-day. Born gifted with strenth of mind, and with an 
iron will in an iron frame and possessed with ability to manage political 
situations in great emergencies, he was advanced at a somewhat rapid 
rate in official life. Among other positions he held, in New York, was 
a seven 3-ears service as secretary of the old Volunteer Fire Department, 
being a member of Hudson Engine Company No., 1. Twenty five years 
ago, however, the superintendency of the Twenty-Second Police Pre- 
cinct, of New York, having been tendered him and foreseeing the turbu- 
lence of such a political existence he declined the honor and instead was 
induced to seek the pleasurable 'pursuits of a more quiet life in the 
country. Accordingly the farm on Moonachie Avenue, was purchased 
and the change of reidence made to Bergen county. It is not to be sup- 
posed, however, that Mr. Feitner has kept aloof wholly from politics in 
this county. The acknowledged fitness of the man for official life has 
of itself brought almost every public trust in the gift of the people with- 
in his reach, but he has invariably refused all offers. Although of 
rather a brusque manner he is one of the kindest of men. 

When Mr. Feitner came to his present home his father came with 
him and died at the age of eighty-six years. His mother lived four score 
and four years. 

The present Feitner homestead was erected in 187.^. An old stone 
in the corner of his house taken from the first house built in this 
part of Bergen county, has on its face three dates, i. e.: 171S, ISld and 
187.^. The original house having been built by Francis Outwater at tin- 
date first named. 

Within doors are antique furniture, and a variety nf curiosities. 
The Feitner home has in its sacred keejjing a great number of valuable 
souvenirs, some of them centuries old, and valuable beyond all commer- 
cial calculation. Here is a valuable wooden clock at least seventy-live 
years of age ; a handsome cherry bureau and desk combined one hundred 
and fifty years f)ld ; rush bottom chairs as solid and comfortable as the 
day when used by the grand parents and all uni(|uc as anticjue ; stone 



HISTOKV <)1' HKKC.IvN COl'NTV .^ / ,^ 

tomahawks and arrow heads used by the Indians were found on his placi'. 

\'ases one hundred and sevent^'-five years old stand beside china- 
ware on mantel-pieces just as aged, and all the handiwork of skilled 
mechanics. At the top of the stair-way is the head of a deer with its 
branching' antlers, shot on the farm one hundred and seventy-five years 
ago. On the walls hang fine works of art, curious pictures of needle- 
work in portrait, woven in silk, gives us the shepherd and shepherdess 
in two frames. 

In 1S4') Mr. f^eitner was married to Miss Mary Kline, whose grand- 
father was on the staff of Napoleon Bonaparte, and (lovernor of Straus- 
burg. 

Their children are Peter, John F.. Charles ()., (xLorge W. and 
Martha Gertrude. Charles O. died when two years old, and John F. is 
a member of the clergy. He graduated at Rutgers College, and is ])as- 
tor now of a church in Westchester county, New York. 

DK. At'Cl'.ST A. KICHTKK. 

In the death of Dr. August A. Richter, Carlstadt lost its oldest 
practicing physician. He was popular among all classes both (unnan 
and American, and his place cannot soon be filled. 

Dr. Richter was born in the year 1840 in Sackingen, (iermanv, and 
at the celebrated institutions of Leipzig he received an education and 
prepared himself for a professional career. Coming to America in 1<S71 
he first resided in Hoboken, N. J. He remained there a short time and 
then settled permanently in Carlstadt, where he soon built up an exten- 
sive and successful practice. As time went on his services became in 
urgent demand by the Germans of Hackensack and he ojjened a branch 
office in that city, doubling his practice. 

Dr. Richter was chief medical officer of the Schuetzen Company of 
Hackensack besides being a member and Medical Examiner of Wieland 
Lodge I. C). O. F. of Carlstadt. He was a member of the Palisade 
Lodge of Free Masons at Union Hill. His death occurred December 
2F>. 18'iS. 

JACOH 11. n.l.MAN.N". 

Jacob H. Ullmann was born in New York city November 15, 1S()1, 
and two years later his ])arents removed to Carlstadt, where his father 
died in IHH.^. 

Young Ullmann's taste for botanical pursuits K-d him to the study ol 
Howers, and as a florist, he does a successful business, su])]. lying quan- 
tities of cut flowers both to the New York market and the home trade. 

He has held a number of offices in both borough and county. In 
IH^."? he was elected coroner by a large majority, having lu'en idected 
township clerk in 1890 and re-elected the following year, still later being 
made Township Committeeman. Mr. I'llmann lias also been chairman 
of the Board of Health and in 18')()-''»7 was elected member of Assemblv. 
He has been Secretary of the Bergen Hose C!ompany No. 1, and fore- 
man of Carlstadt Hose Com|)anv. bul rdusrcl to take entire command of 



374 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 



the borough fire department which was offered him. He was made 
postmaster of Carlstadt July 15, 18^7, and is serving as collector of taxes 
for the borough at present. 

Mr. Ullmann is a member of the Turn Verein and Concordia Dramatic 
Society. 

KEV. CAMILLUS MONDOKF. 

Undoubtedly every one living in East Rutherford, Carlstadt and vicin- 
ity knows and reveres Rev. C. Mondorf, the charitable Rector of St. 
Joseph's Roman Catholic Church. As a self sacrificing man and priest 
of (iod, he enjoys the esteem and hearty good wishes of all denomina- 
tions. 

He was born on the historic banks of the Rhine, near Cologne, 
Octtiber 21. 1S44. As a student he entered the Prussian Army in 18()(), 




FATHER MONDOKF 

and after serving the Statutory term he resumed his studies first in 
Belgium and afterward in (iermany. He came to America in 1876, and 
the following year, January 1, 1877 was ordained a priest by Bishop 
Wadhams of Ogdensburg, N. Y. The Rt. Rev. Bishop Wigger selected 
him in August 1885 as Rector of St. Joseph's Church in East Rutherford. 
This Church was built in 1873. Father Mondorf also acts as Rector of 
St. Francis De Sales' Church in the village of Lodi, three and a half 
miles distant. The little Catholic Church in Lodi was built in 1854 and 
was dedicated by Rt. Rev. Bishop Bailey of Newark on the 2 its of De- 
cember in the same year. 

EKNKST F. SICKENBKKGEK. 

Ernest F. Sickenberger Ph. D., Phar. D., M. D. is a highly edu- 
cated physician, who came to this country in 1881 and to Carlstadt in 



HisTDKv oi' hi;k{;en county •■■/.■^ 

IS'iS, wluTc lu- has luiilt u]) all extensive practice in llu- prdl'cssion nl' 
medicine. 

He is a native of tiermany and was borii in 1S5'». After receivinji 
a jjood education in the public and hij^-li schouls of his native country, 
he studied pharmacy in the University of Freiburg, subsequently spend- 
ing- some years travelling through Europe and the Orient, mastcring 
several languages, which he speaks with fluency. 

He was graduated also from the New York College of Pharmacy in 
1852; the National College, Washington, D. C. 1SS7, and the Columbia 
College Medical Department, in 1.S95. 

FK.\NZ FKITSCH. 

Franz Fritsch, a well known business man of Carlstadt, is of (ier- 
man birth, but came to this country with his parents when but fifteen 
years of age. He is the oldest son of the late Joseph and Therese ( Rail- 
ing ) Fritsch. His father was born in 181(i at Bergenz, Austria, and 
resided there until 1S59, the date of his coming to America. Here he 
continued his business of wax bleaching and candle making, in New 
York city until 1861, when he removed to Carlstadt and engaged more 
extensively in the manufacture of candles, a business w'hich he carried 
on u]) to the time of his death in is'io. 

Mr. Franz Fritsch was born in Hergenz, Austria, Noveml)er 2(>, 
1S47. and was educated in the public schools of his native place, after- 
wards learning the business of wax bleacher and candle maker. Mr. 
Fritsch was for some years projjrietor of a large livery and sales stable, 
keeping a well selected stock of animals and enjoying the patr(mage of 
the best j^aying customers. At present he is engaged in the liquor busi- 
ness. 

Always taking an active interest in his locality, he served as mem- 
ber of the new Carlstadt village board of trustees for a period of eleven 
years, member of the Board of Chosen Freeholders from 18').^ to 18')'), 
and was one of the original members of the fire department. 

Socially he belongs to the Carlstadt Turn Verein. Mr. l'"ritscli 
married Miss Lizzie Mary Burger, Iroiu Carlstadt. 

(,(itti.ii:h sAfi'i.K. 

(iotllieb Sauter is a repri'sentative of one of the old(7crman lamilies 
of Europe. His grandfather was a teacher in the schodls of i'"leliiii- 
gen and Zaisenhausen for fifty years. His father was Titvyn Clerk 
eighteen years. Mayor. ' lUirgeiiieistiT j nine years and t'ollector of 'Paxes 
for twenty years. 

The subject of our sketch was born in the town of Flehingen, Baden, 
(iermany in 1854. In 1871 Mr. Sauter came to the United States, locating 
first in Kockport, Indiana, coming- to Carlstadt in 1S77. In r87<» he went 
to New York city and took a three years course in Mechanical Drawing 
in Cooper Institute. He tlun returned to Carlstadt settling first on his 
farm. After nine yt-ars lie built bis sliii]paii<l later erected his residence, 
sinci' then becoming priniiiiuiitl \ ideiiti linl with all tlie iiiqiorlant move- 



3V() 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 



ments lookinsr t.. the buikliug: up of the town. He employs twelve or 
fifteen men the year round and has built many of the fine residences in 
this part of the county. 

Mr. Sauter is now serving his third term as councilman; is a mem- 
ber of the Board of Education, was also one of the promoters of the 
Buildiuif and Loan Association, having; been a director in that institu- 
tion from the time of its organization. He is a member of Ihe I. O. O. 
F. and is identified with many other societies in the place. 

AUCtI'ST moench. 
Auf^ust Moench, editor and proprietor of the "Carlstadt Freie 
Presse"''is a son of Jacob and Wilhelmina Moench, and was born in 




AUGUST MOKNCH 

Wurtemberg-, Germany, February 2, 1864. His father who died May 1'), 
18'J8, at the^'age of sixty-five years, was teacher of the German language 
in the Carlstadt public schools for thirty consecutive years. He was re- 
tired on a pension January 1, 1898, under the "Teachers' Retirement 
Fund" of New Jersey. Mr. Moench was a well known pedagogue, 
throughout the county, being the first German teacher to be actually 
en'^ag^'ed in the county. Young August was but one year old when his 
parents emigrated to this country, and located in the village of Csrl- 
stadt where he received his education in the public schools. He is sole 
editor and proprietor of the "Freie Presse," the only German paper 
published in Bergen county. After serving an apprenticeship with the 



HISTOKY OF BKKGKN COUNTY 377 



•'Freie Presse" he bei-ame connected with "Puck" where he remained 
twelve years, returning to take chars^o of this plant. 

Mr. Moench is a public spirited and respected citi;.en, takins;- :i lull 
share in the welfare of his village. He is president of the Free Sundav 
school, member of the Board of Education, is director of the hical Loan 
and Huilding Association, president of the Carlstadt Bowling- Club, 
member of Turn Verein, Concordia; Fire Department, Dramatic Circle, 
and member of the Workingman's Association of Woodridge. He is 
happily married to Miss Mary Wentzel of Carlstadt. 

CHRISTOPHER NIEDEKKK. 

Christopher Niederer, who conducts the Mount Pleasant Park and 
Hotel is a popular man, genial, courteous and obliging. He was born 
in Amorbach, Bavaria, April 12, 1836, and came to America in 1S53, 
when he settled in New York city and worked at his trade of cabinet 
maker. 

At the beginning of our Civil War Mr. Niederer, patriotically en- 
listed in Company F, 20th Regiment New York Volunteers, serving- two 
years and four months. He has always been an enthusiastic G. A. R. 
man and was one of the originators of Custer Post No. 17 which was 
organized in his house on July 29th, i878. Capable, as well as popular, 
Mr. Niederer has held all the offices belonging to the Post. 

Upon coming to Carlstadt in 1S71 he established his present busi- 
ness which he has carried on continuously and -with good success. 

His ])lace is made headquarters for the Turn \'erein, Friendsliij) 
Howling Club and the Carlstadt Drum Corps. 

.\LBEKT XIKDEKEK. 

xVlbert Niederer, son of Christopher and Johanna Niederer, was 
born in New York city March 27, 181)8, and was educated in Woodridge 
and Carlstadt public schools and in New York College of Pharmacv. 
from which he was graduated March 1888, receiving third ])rize. He 
then became ccmnected with the Eastern Dispensary of New York city, 
remaining about two years as assistant pharmacist. After this he was 
connected with various pharmacist in the city until IS'H, when he opened 
a store on his own account in Carlstadt, N. J. which is proxing suc- 
cessful. 

Mr. Niederer was married to Miss ICmily Fortt'ubach on Octolier 18. 
i8<>4. He is a member of the Alumni .Association of the College of 
Pharmacy of New York city, of New Jersey Pharmaceutical Associa- 
tion, also a member of the "League of American Wheelmen." and the 
"Carlstadt Turn \'erein " of Carlstadt, N. .1. 

WILLI.^M HMH.VCH. 

William Uml)ach, manufacturer of soda water, and beer liottler, 
has been a resident of Carlstadt since 1892. He is a native of ( lermany, 
where he attended school until fourteen years of age, after which he 
spent a year or more in ICngland. When si'venteen years of age he 



378 HISTORY OF BEKGEX COUNTY 

came to New York, landing- in the New World without a cent in his 
pockets. This was in 1871. After working some years for Stratton & 
Storm, large cigar manufacturers, he had enough money to enter the 
grocery business on his own account. Success followed him in his 
new venture and he came into possession of valuable property- in the 
citv which he still owns. In 1892 he purchased property in Carlstadt, 
enlarged and utilized it for the purposes of his plant, two years subse- 
quentlv putting in machinery for the manufacture of soda water. Mr. 
Umbach gives employment to several men constantly, and has a well 
established business. 

William Umbach, Jr., is studing law, and Lituis another s(m, is 
pursuing a business education. 

AUGUST GERECKE 

August Gerecke, son of Christopher and Friedericke (Volger) 
Gerecke, was born in Braunschweig, Germany, September 22. 184i. 
After coming to America he was educated in the public schools of New 
York cit}'. Upon the completion of his sch(K)l work he learned the trade 
of machinist and locksmith, in which he has since successfully engaged. 
May 1, 1861, he enlisted in Company E, Fifth Regiment, New York 
Militia, for three months" service, and was discharged at New York city 
August 7, of the same year. On October 5, 1861, he re-enlisted in Com- 
pany H, Fifty-second New York Volunteers, and was made corporal. He 
was wounded at the battle of Fair Oaks, Sunday, June i, 1862, and was 
discharged at Falmouth, Virginia, December iith of that year, Isecause 
of wounds received in battle. 

Since that time Mr. Gerecke has become a citizen of Carlstadt, and 
is president of the Vulcan Hardware Manufactory of Wire Gauges. He 
is a member of Custer Post, No. i7. G. A. R., and of the Carlstadt 
Bowling Club. 

Mr. (ierecke's wife was Miss Mary A. Oswald of Scotland. 

JOHN W.AGXEK. 

John Wagner, proprietor of Union Park Hotel, was born in the city 
of New York in 1855. His father John Wagner. Senior, who was born 
in Germany in 183.^, came to America in 1850. landing in New York, 
where he followed his trade of baker. He was the first to use the four 
wheeled single truck in that city, for trucking and moving. In 18()7. 
Mr. Wagner came to Carlstadt and purchased the Dramatic Hall, but 
later sold this property, and on May 1, 1869, moved into the hotel which 
bears his name. In 1892 he built his residence on First Street, where he 
died December 5, 1897. 

John Wagner, Jr. came to Carlstadt when a boy and remained with 
his father until sixteen years of age, when he went to Newark and 
worked five years as a butcher, following the same business for a time in 
Paterson. In 1871 he made a visit to the old country and in 1880 located 
])ermanently in Carlstadt, remaining since that time iu charge of Union 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 379 



Park Hotel. This buililinLj when jiurehased oceupied but a small space 
of ground, but additions have been made until now the grounds cover an 
entire block. The hotel proper contains thirteen large rooms in addi- 
tion to which is a large pavillion used for dancing and for large gather- 
ings which are frequently held there. There are also large summer and 
. winter kitchens with all the appliances for entertaining a large compan v 
at short notice. As many as two hundred and tiftv people have l)een 
served at one time in the dining room. 

ArC.fST KICIIAKD KI.AUSS. 

August Richard Klauss was born in Germany April 2.>, IS.^f). He 
was educated in the public schools of his native place and came to 
America in 188O, where he spent the first eighteen mcmths in I'itts- 
burgh, Penna., subsequently coming to New York citv and thence to 
Carlstadt in i882. 

He takes a lively interest in ])ublic affairs, and has held various 
local offices, having been a member of the Board of Trustees, Police 
Commissioner, Chief of the Fire Department, and also Foreman of Fn- 
gine Company No. i. As a member of the borough council he has 
served on some of its most important committees. 

Mr. Klauss is president of the Liquor Dealers' Association, .ind con- 
ducts a business of his own, meeting with success. 

A true German in his love of music and social good cheer, he is a 
valuable member of the Carlstadt Schutzen Company, and also belongs 
to the C(mcordia, a singing association. He is an Odd Fellow and a 
Turner, in addition to belonging to diiTerent benevolent and beneficial 
organizations. 

His wife was a Miss Maggie Deerhert of Carlstadt, who w.is liorn 
in New York citv in i8S'>. 

l'l\'. KIST. 

Fr. Kist, manufacturer of ladies' muslin underwear 7 and ') Small 
Street, is a native of Germ.inv l)orn in the citvof Buclian of Wirtenberg, 
in 18:w. 

In early life he lost l)oth p.irents, and. after recei\ing some educa- 
tion in the public schools, he learned the trade of tailor. In 1S71, 
during the Franco-German war, he came to America, where he worked 
for the P^ortenbach Company, in Carlstadt, six years. After residing for 
fifteen years on the Hoboken Koad. across the Ilackttisack. he moved 
into the village in IS8S. to the ])ropertv he now occii])ii's and where he 
started his factorv. 

Mr. Rist and his four daughters began this business first in a small 
way, but he now employs thirty girls and will soon be under the neces- 
sity of increasing the capacity of his i)lant. He manufactures soKlv 
for Siecher & Company, New York, the largest concern in the citv for 
the manufacture of uncU'rwear. 

III'.NKN' KKIIU.INC. 

Henry Krieling. for twenty-tive years a prominent Ljrocer in Carl- 



380 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

st;idt, is a native of Germany, born in the province of Hanover, in the 
year 1825. When twenty-five years of ag-e he set sail for this country, 
and for fifteen years was associated with one of the leading- dry goods 
establishments in New York. In 1868 he came to Carlstadt when he 
established himself in business, and also became prominently identified 
with the Presbyterian Church, having; served as treasurer, and as 
trustee for many years. 

Mr. Krieling- has' two sons well known in business circles in Carl- 
stadt. Henry Krieling, Jr., the elder son, is a cutter, and Herman owns 
a dairv. Socially, they have all been prominent in various ways, looking 
to the welfare of the community. 

JOHN N. KASMl'.S. 

John N, Rasmus one of the oldest merchants and contractors in 
Carlstadt was born in Holstein, Germany, in 1830. In 1850 he came to 
New York and on May 10, of that year, took up his abode in Carlstadt. 
He worked at his trade of mason until 1855, when he became manager 
for Charles Treppke, with whom he remained in full charge of his store, 
for five years, after which he opened a store on his own account. 

In 1 854 Mr. Rasmus built a house on Hackensack street for Mr. 
Trappke, the first in the village of Carlstadt, and in i86S he built the 
Stewart Winslow residence on Orient Way, the first house in Ruther- 
ford. He carried on the business of contractor from i8f>5 to i888, and 
built the Methodist Protestant church and many other fine structures in 
Rutherford. 

In i858 Mr. Rasmus j()ined the Turners' Society of Carlstadt, and in 
i872 became a member of the fire department, holding it's secretaryship 
three years, he was foreman two years, and treasurer three years, he 
was also on the Board of Trustees of his town fourteen years. Treasurer 
of the Board three years. Overseer of the Poor two terms and has been 
Councilman of his borough since its formation in i882. 

C;OTTFKIED MEKCKEL. 

Gottfried Merckel, pharamacist and proprietor of the drug store 
established by Otto Frank, many years ago, is a native of (lermany, 
where he was educated in the public schools, and in which country also 
he took a thorough pharmaceutical course of instruction, supplementing 
that with a three years' clerkship, preparatory to going into business for 
himself. In 1892 he sailed for America, landing in New York, when he 
continued his chosen field of labor until 1897 when he came to Carlstadt. 

Mr. Merckel has a good trade and enjoys the confidence of the 
people. 

GEOKGE MULLEK. 

George Muller, proprietor of the Monumental Marl)le Works, and 
of the Casino, '^Carlstadt, was born in Darmstadt, in the province of 
Hesse, Germany, in 1848. He is the son of Valentine Mueller, a farmer, 
and was educated in the public schools of his native ])lace. At the age 



HISTOKY OF BEKCiKN COUNTY 381 

of L'iyhtCL'ti years he came to this eountrv aiiil became apprenticed t<> Mr. 
Gregx>rv. of Hoboken, to learn the trade of stone mason. 

He remained with his employer in all, until 1S7S, hayin<j;- in the 
meantime become his foreman, and a skilled workman at the trade. In 
ls7.^, he came to Carlstadt, purchased twelye lots of t^round and beg'an 
his career, which has since disting-uished him. in the marble business. 

The monuments for Fortenbach, (lro.-,se, Wagner, Otto and the 
yault for William Werger stand as specimens of his work in Bergen 
county, while in Paterson the colossal m')numents erected to the Rev. 
Jidm C. \'oorhees, Merhof and others represent his work in that ])lace. 

ADAM ZINK, SK'. 

Adam Zink, Sr., i>resi(lent of Berrv Lawn Cemetery, and forn.icr 
Commissioner of Appeals, was born in Bavaria, Germany, in lSo2. 
Farming was his occupation, and in 1854 he came to this country, locat- 
ing afterwards on the farm of John Ackerman in Lodi township, where 
his father died in 1855. In 18()9 he went into business for himself, and 
has held, besides, many political offices. In i8'>7 he was elected Com- 
missioner of Appeals for two years. He was a member for sex'en years 
of the Carlstadt Fire Department which he joined in i872. He was 
made president of the Berry Lawn Association in I8't,^, and still holds 
that position. 

THK Vil.I.AHE OF LODI. 

Sixty-seyen years ago, Rt)bert Rennie, Esq., left Scotland, the place 
of his l)irth. for the United States, and arrived here penniless, but as a 
Yankee once expressed it, "chock full or work." He brought with him 
personal honesty, industry, intelligetice, and a thorough knowledge of a 
good trade. His brother. James, who was originally "a block printer" 
was then ccmducting a small manufacturing business on the banks of 
the Passaic, on the spot still known as "Nightingale's Mills." To this 
])!ace Robert immediately directed his steps, and became engaged as 
superintendent of the establishment, immediately infusing new life and 
energy into tlu' business. They soon remii\ed to the present town oi 
Lodi where a small mill had been built for James, by Jacob Ho])per and 
Abraham C. Zabriskic. This mill was com])letely destroyed by lire in 
18.^4, and rebuilt on a much larger scale by Robert Renni^-, who suc- 
ceeded his brother as the sciK- pro])rietor, thus laying tlu' foundation id' 
the afterwards famous '" I^odi Print Worlcs," which atone time stood at 
the head of all concerns of the kind in the United States. 

Previous to that period Lixli had been .almost a wilderness. In 1S2S 
the only houses in the vicinity were tin- unassuming residences of Henry 
Hopper, Richard Stagg and l)a\id I. Ackerman. To-day L xli has a 
large pojniiation, five or si.\ churches, many stores, a district schocd. ])ost 
office, and other elements of a good sized city. 

For this the inhabitants are nriiiilv. if not altogether indel)ted to 
Robert Rennie, who out of most un])romising material fashioned com- 
])aratiye grcritness. Lodi was at lirst called K'einiiev\il]e, in opposition 



382 



HISTOKY OF BEKGKN COUNTY 



to the wishes cf Mr. Rennie, who finally caused the name to be changed, 
and still retained the respect and gratitude of the community. 

The Rennie brothers were three in number, Robert being tlie 
voun crest. Peter Rennie was well known in New York. He had an 
extensiYe laundry in Bloomingdale, yielding him a large fortune which 
he enioved and used with commendable good sense. He remained there 
until hi's death ; but it mav be said, truly, that Robert Rennie. by his 
industry, enterprise, liberality and genuine devotion to business did the 
most to make the name celebrated. He always had an extreme aver- 
sion to being spoken of by the press. 

The heavy factories of New England, proved to be too formidable 
for competition here and the " Lodi Print Works, " or -Manufacturing 
Company," as the institution, with its stockholders, was subsequently 
called, went by the board. , • ., 

After abandoning the print works, Mr. Rennie engaged in the 
manufacture of chemicals and dye stuffs and in this pursuit he was not 
likely to meet with any serious reverses. He employed about httv 
workmen in the chemical works, but during his control ot the print 
works he had charge of upwards of five hundred men. 

He had a large interest in the Hackensack Railroad. ..t which he 
was a prominent director, and built the Lodi Railroad at his own est. 
and for the convenience of his friends. 

Mr Rennie resided on the west side of Saddle River br,.ok. on a 
large estate which commanded a view of the Print Works and objects 
of interest in the vincinity. 

The grounds were laid out with fine taste, and were a m<.del worthy 
of imitation. He died August 23, 1882. 

CHUKCHES. 

In 1845 was organized the Lodi Congregational Church. Services 
were reo-ularly held at various places in the village until the year 18/2 
when a plot of ground was purchased and a church edifice erected at a 
cost of three thousand dollars. Subsequently a library of several thous- 
and volumes, formerly belonging to the Lodi Reading Room Association, 
was purchased by the church which made a valuable additi.ni to the 

needs of the society. l- i \ 

The first ministers in succession since 1871 were Revs. \< rank A. 
Johnson, F. Y. Turn, and William H. Broadhead. Subsequently sup- 
plies from the Theological Seminary New York, filled the pulpit. 

In 1878 the founders of the Second Reformed Church of Lodi Village. 
seceded from the Ccmgregaticmal Church. They were accompanied in 
their movement by the former pastor ,.f the church. Rev. R. M. Ottord. 
The secession from the Congregati.mal Church was due to a dispute as 
to the regularity of the ordinaticm of Mr. Offord. On the 17th of Sep- 
tember 1878, he was admitted to the Classis of Paramus. and on the 
lOth of October of the same year was installed pastor of the Second Re- 



HisTOKV or bick(;ex county S83 

fiirini'd Churcli. A hnuse of worship was subsequently erected and ser- 
vices rei;ularlv held thereafter. 

The First i Holland ) Reformed C'hureh was orifanized in i.S5'». A 
house of worship was erected in the village of Lodi, at a cost of about 
two thousand five hundred dollars, during' the same year. In lSf)S the 
General Synod of the Holland Reformed Church in America directed 
that the term Holland be dropped from the name of the church, or placed 
in brackets. A majoritv of the members of this church in Lodi, with 
their pastor. Rev. W. C. Wust, disapproved of the chanj,'-e, and refused 
to comply with the directioti. A minority, on the other hand, conceded 
the rig'ht of the General Synod to modify the name of the church, and 
were ready to carry out the direction. A question arose as to which 
party should have the church edifice. A long course of litigation fol- 
lowed, which terminated in favor of the minority. The minister was 
the Rev. James Hyssoon, 1>S5<M)4; Rev. \V. C. Wust, l.S(,4-7,=^: Rev. Wil- 
liam F. Betz, 1875-78. The next pastor of this church was Louis (i. 
Jongeneel, the preaching being in the Holland language. The first 
officers were: Deacons, Aart Jonsen Brun, Nicholas Boogartman, P. 
Vande \'reede; Elders, B. H. Smith, Christian Van Heest, Pieter Van 
Heest, Cornelius Vande Vreedc, G. W. Burchkeyser. 

The body which seceded from the First (Holland) Reff)rmed Church 
in 18()8 asstimed the name "Nethcrland Reformed Church." The pastor. 
Rev. W. C. Wust, under whose leadership the secession was consuma- 
ted, in 1876 gave a plot of ground to the society, on which an edifice was 
erected at a cost of two thousand dollars. Since that date their pastor 
accepted a call to preach in his native Holland. He remained there two 
years but returned. During his absence the services were conducted by 
one of the leading members, Mr. Daniel Cook. The first officers of this 
church were Daniel Cook. (larret Btiller, Peter Ney, Peter De X'ries, M. 
Sacker, and A. Vogleson. 

St. Francis de Sales' Roman Catludic Church of Ivodi X'illage en- 
joys the distinction of being the oldest Catholic Church in Bergen 
county. It was organized in \Sr>5. The edifice was erected during that 
year at a cost of four thousand dollars, and was dedicated by Bishop J. 
Roosevelt Bayley, late Archbishop of Baltimore. It is .1 mission church, 
its pulpit having been supplied in turn l)y pastors from I'aterson, 
Hackensack, Fort Lee, and Carlstadt. The first jjastor was L. I). 
Senez. 

The African Zion E])iscopal, a small society, was organizi'd about 
1S72. The first pastor was Ileiuy Dumson. 

lUlv'IAI.-lM. ACl'.S. 

The township of F^odi h.is only two ])ublic burial-grounds, one in 
Lodi and the other in Carlstadt, both of comparatively- recent origin. 
The one at Lodi is a Catholic cemetery, and was oi)ened in 1855, when 
the Catholic Church was built. It is (juite extensive, having been used 
for several years as a burial-ground by all the Catholics in Bergen coun- 



3^4 HISTOKY OF BERGEN COUNTY 



ty. The cemetery at Carlstadt was opened soon after the organization 
of the villag-e in 1S53. The inscriptions are mainly in German. 

GEORGE C. MEKCEK. 

Georg-e Cockburn Mercer was born in Earlston, Scotland, March 17. 
185h fifs mother's lineage mingles not far back with that of the late 
Lord Chief Justice Cockburn of England, Cockburn being her maiden 
name. Earlston has historical interests and lies in one of most beautiful 
sections of Scotland. It was the home of Thomas the Rhymer, the ruins 
of whose castle are visited by tourists from far and near. These old 
ruins have recently passed into .the hands of the Historical Society of 
Scotland, and will receive the care due them. Seven miles over the hills 
from Earlston is Galashiels, famous for its woolen industries. At much 
less distance is Melrose with its immortal abbey, also Dryburgh, Abbots- 
ford, the home of Sir Walter Scott, afld other places of world wide 
renown The Leader, a picturesque stream, home of the finest trout m 
Scotland, and on which Earlston stan4s, flows into the Tweed, two miles 
below the town. To the beauties of Jiature are added the atmosphere of 
romance, and here young Mercer not only first saw the light, but received 
his principal educational training, passing through a thorough academic 

course. ^ , . , . , 

Mr. Mercer followed the example of many of his kinsmen and a 
still larger number of his countrymen, when in 1873 he left his native 
shores for America. He reached the land of his adoption October 24th 
of that year, and at once found a home with relatives in Lodi. After 
a brief engagement with the proprietor of the old Lodi store, he became 
associated^with the New Jersey and New York railroad, and managed 
its Lodi branch, overseeing the disposition of large quantities of freight, 
which passed to and from the Lodi mills. Subsequently he was engaged 
in a confidential capacity with Messrs. H. J. Libby & Co. of New York, 
the well known agents of the Norfolk and New Brunswick Hosiery 
Co with their large mills in New Jersey and New England. Later on 
he became a member of the firm of Byrne, Bros. & Co., with its cotton 
croods finishing mills at Lodi, and was the New York representative and 
financial manager of the concern. After seven years of marked suc- 
cess the property of the firm was destroyed by fire. It was not rebuilt, 
and the firm was dissolved by mutual consent. Mr. Mercer then turned 
his attention to the manufacture of woolen shoddies and extracts, and 
located in Garfield. For this purpose he organized in 1894 the Garfield 
Woolen Company and became its president and treasurer and still holds 
these offices, to which he devotes his most assidious attention. He is 
also a director of the Peoples' Bank and Trust Company of Passaic, of 
which concern he has been a stockholder from its inception. Seven 
years a-o he organized the Lodi Building and Loan Association and is 
"its president This organization has a high reputation for its conser- 
vatism It has aided scores of the citizens of Lodi to procure homes 
of their own, and proved a lucrative form of investment to the stock- 
holders. 



HISTOKV OF HKK(;KN COVNTV .iho 

In 1890 Mr. Mercer married Miss Isabella Vair Cockburn, a dautfh- 
ter of (icorge Cockburn, of Ludinjjton, Michisran. She is a graduate of 
the Boston Conservatory of Music, and a voung lady of marked musical 
talent. 

In addition to his many business duties, Mr. Mercer was for many 
years postmaster of Lodi. As a result of his efforts, the village was 
incorporated as a borough in 1894, and at the second election for Mayor 
in 1897, he was elected to that office without opposition. In this t)fficial 
capacity he has pushed needed measures for the improvement of its 
thoroughfares, and has shown a spirit of progress that is proving infec- 
tious and full of promise for the welfare of the place. In his private 
capacity he ensured the locating of the Alexander Dye Works, one of the 
largest silk dyeing and finishing mills in the world, in Lodie. He has 
also introduced an electric system and is lending his efforts to the move- 
ment, which he practically initiated, to link Passaic and Lodi by means 
of an electric railway. 

Mr. Mercer is a member of the Washington Club, Passaic, a Oovern- 
nor of the Passaic General Hospital and a member of its Committee on 
P^inance. He is a Free Mason of high degree, having some time since 
become a member of the Mystic Shrine. He is a member of the St. 
Andrew's Society of New York and of the Orean Park Club of Passaic. 
He was one of the founders of the Second Reformed Church of Passaic, 
serving for nearly twenty years as deacon and its treasurer. He has 
been one of its most active members and supporters, and its interests are 
dear to his heart. He is the Superintendent of its Sunday-school and in 
many other ways fosters the work and aids the cause. Mr. Mercer is a 
man of unflagging energy, great executive ability and industry. He is 
a Republican in politics, an intelligent observer of the times, a faithful 
friend, and among his fellow men always genial and companionable. 
He is benevf)lent without ostentation, and has the respect and hearty 
esteem of a wide circle of acquaintances. 

WAIJ.INGTOX. 

The liorough of Wallington includes all that territory of land lying 
between the Passaic River, the Short Cut Railroad and the trolley road 
from Passaic to Hoboken. It was organized in March i895. 

The officers elected were as follows: Mayor, Jacob Wagner; Presi- 
dent of Council, Bernard Koster; Councilmen, Bernard Koster, John 
Baker, Thomas R. Collins, Walter F. Schmitt, Charles R. Stewart, and 
Robert Engle; Clerk, Conrad Kreger; Assessor, William De Vogel; 
Collector, Pascal Gardella; President Board of Education, Bernard Kos- 
ter; Board of Health, Menzo Neer, president. 

March, 1899: Mayor, James Van Bussum; President of Council, 
Thomas R. Collins; Councilmen, James Soop, James Ryan, Peter Gly- 
nis, (ieorge W. Gill, John J. Polmann; Clerk, Christian De Keyser; As- 
sessor, John McMahon; Collector, Peter De Keyser; Counsel, A. D. Sul- 
livan; Chief of Police, Robert Cook; Commissioners of Appeals, Wil- 
liam De Vogel, Jacob Wagner and Jolin De Keyser; Board of Education, 



386 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COITNTY 



Frank Wentink, president; Board of Health, Edward Cutting, president. 



PUBLIC HALL. 

The corner-stone of the new Public Hall of \Vallin<^ton was laid on 
Saturday, November 13, 1897, by appropriate exercises, Mr. A. D. Sulli- 
van acting as Master of Ceremonies. Mr. Sullivan was followed by As- 
serablvman-elect, John M. Bell. Mayor Koster, ex-Mayor Wagner, Coun- 
cilman James Soop, and others. President Krug of Wallington Hall 
Association, presented Mayor Koster with a handsome silver-plated 




W.^LLIXGTON SCHOOL 

trowel with which he tapped the stone, saying, "I herewith dedicate 
this hall to the w^elfare of the Borough of Wallington." 

The children sang "America," and othernational melodies, and each 
received a souvenir. 

After the ceremonies. ex-Mayor Wagner entertained the invited 
guests at his residence, where the festivities were prolonged until a late 
hour. 

\V.\LLIXGTOX PKESBYTEKI.'^N CHURCH. 

From a report of the secretary, Mr. George C. Woolson, to the 
officers of the Wallington Presbyterian Church and Sunday School, 
dated October 17, 1897, we note the following interesting facts relative 
to its history. 



HISTOKY OK BEKOKN COUNTY 387 

Mr. WodIsdh s;iys : "Tho articles of incDrptJration constitutiiiii' thr 
Board of Trustees of the WallinL^fton Presbyterian Society were drawn 
up and tiled according to law on May 23d, IS'td. Two preliminarv meet- 
ings of the trustees were held (m May 30 and June 11, rcspectivelv, to 
consider plans for a church edifice, and to devise ways and means to 
secure funds for such a building, as well as to select two lots on which 
to build, said lots having been previously generously donated by Mr. L. 
M. Alden, of Passaic. On June T>th a meeting was held at the Wal- 
lington public schoolhouse to decide upon plans for the proposed church 
edifice, when it was decided to accept that offered by Architect S. B. 
Reid of New York city, and the trustees were empowered to make such 
alterations as in their judgment were deemed necessary. At the close 
of the meeting the ladies met and organized the Ladies" Aid Society of 
the Wallington Presbyterian Church. 

"On June 22 the trustees met and projjoscd certain changes look- 
ing towards the improvement of the plans, and in the last week in June 
ground was broken for the cellar." 

"The corner-stone was laid by Rev. Dr. P. F. Leavens on the even- 
ing of July 21st, with appropriate ceremonies and in the presence of 
several hundred persons. Mr. Woolson saj-s 'This corner-stone was cut 
and donated by Mr. Daniel Demarest of Passaic, and it may be further 
stated that nearly all the material and labor used were freely given by 
those interested in the promotion of a church in this place.' " 

On October 7th, 8th and ')th a very successful fair was held in the 
building, at which time about $491, — no small sum for such a commun- 
ity — was cleared, and in June a lawn party was held, at which S75 more 
was cleared, this money enabling the ladies to furnish the church. 

The Sabbath School was opened at 2.30 o'clock on Sunday, October 
11, and the church was dedicated November 17, Rev. Ame Vcnnema de- 
livering the sermon. November 22, Rev. Dr. P. F. Leavens, preached 
the first sermon at 3.30 P. M. On April 11, 1S'>7. lifteen members were 
received by confession of faith, three joined by letter, and during the 
])ast year forty-one adults and eight infants were bajjlizcd. 

The attendance at the Sunday School from October 11, 1S')(>, U> 
October 3, 1897, inclusive, averaged sixty-five, a weekly coiitrilmtion nf 
!?11.21 having been given. The average attendance at church for the 
same time was fifty-seven, the weekly contribution amounting to $4.80. 
The trustees of the new church are W. A. Wiliard, president; (1. 
C. Woolson, secretary; Janus Soop, treasurer; J. \'an Idestine, Charles 
Kuhne. John Kingsland, A. L. S])ringsteen, Adney P. Post and Charles 
R. Stewart. 

Regular church services are held every Sabbath evening at 7.30, 
and besides the Society of Christian Endeavor, which holds regular 
services, a weekly j)raycr meeting was started in November 1898, and is 
held every Friday evening, at eight o'clock. The present pastor is Mr. 
A. F. Parker of Patcrson and under his earnest and zealous preaching 
tlu- society is making good and substantial progress. 



3S8 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COIiNTY 

STANDARD OIL WORKS. 

The Standard Oil Company carry oil from their fields in Pennsylva- 
nia to the seaboard at Bayoune, in pipes laid under ground to a depth of 
thirty-sis inches. 

Were the surface through which these pass, on a level, or nearly so, 
the force necessary to carry the oil to its destination would be greatly 
reduced, but as it is necessarily over hills and along lowlands, it is not 
possible to use long lines of tubing. To obviate the danger of bursting 
pipes by such great force, pumping stations are arranged at regular 
intervals of thirty miles where the oil is received in large tanks and 
again pumped to the next station. This is the eleventh and last station 
on the line. 

At Garfield twenty-four large iron tanks having a capacity of thirty- 
five thousand barrels, and several large brick buildings are located. 
One of the buildings contains the engines and pumps, while in the others 
are the telegraph office and steam boilers. The engines are running 
constantly day and night throughout the year, egg-anthracite coal being 
used as fuel. Natural drafts keeps the furnaces running without artifi- 
cial aid consuming about twenty-five tons of coal in every twenty-four 
hours. To determine when a break or leak occurs, and also the amount 
of pressure, each station employs a mercury pressure-gauge, which will 
indicate a leak of even one barrel per hour. The pipe lines are passed 
over each day by men who are called line walkers. At the station are 
employed four engineers, four fireman, two coal-heavers and four tele- 
graph operators. 

The Standard Oil Company bought their right of way for a large 
sum, by which they are entitled to this right for a term of twenty yea-rs 
more or less. The station in Garfield is in the south-east corner of 
the borough, near Passaic. 

THE ANDERSON LUMBER COMPANY. 

The Anderson Lumber Company was established in 1812 by David 
I. Anderson and Major Post, under the firm name of Anderson & Post. 
David I. Anderson, the senior member of the firm, was born in 1792 and 
died in 1873. His son W. S. Anderson was born in 1827, and after at- 
taining his majority, became a clerk in the lumber and coal office of 
Anderson & Post, eventually becoming a partner in the business and 
finally succeeding to the sole ownership. In 1876 S. T. Zabriskie came 
into the firm. In 1885, S. L. Nickerson, who for twenty-eight years be- 
fore had been a sea captain, entered into partnership with W. S. Ander- 
son Company and built the original factory on the Wallington side. 
This building afterwards receiving additions, has a one hundred and 
fifty horse-power engine, while about fifty men find constant employ- 
ment in manufacturing all kinds of packing cases, and everything per- 
taining to wood work for a house. In 1887 a stock company was formed. 
The present officers are: Simeon T. Zabriskie, President; Edward Phil- 
lil^s. Secretary and Treasurer; Captain S. L. Nickerson Superintendent. 




Jfl.irS KOKKHS 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 



?89 



This cnmpaiiy has extensive duck I'aeilities. Its water I'nnit is iiKire 
than half a mile in length. 

MK. Jfl.irS K()|.;ilKS. 

Julius Kochrs, proprietor of the Mammoth Flower (xarden, near the 
crest of the Showhank ridge, on the Paterson plank road, is a native 
of Germany, born in the cit v of Hamburg- in the year 1844. 

After leaving school he started as apprentice in the Kiel Botanical 
Garden at the University of Holstein. He afterward supplemented his 
training by travel through the greenhouses and flower gardens of Ger- 
many, Belgium and other countries, until he secured a position with M. 
Sienan. Esq., of Jersey City, to take charge of his extensive collection of 
Orchids. He came to the United States in 1868, and for six years was 
associated with Mr. Sienan. After this he rented the plant, enlarging 
it subsequently and conducting it as his own in connection with another 
establishment, on Jersey Citv Heights. 

In 18S4 he formed new plans, and began anew. Hi- sn]il dut his 




i<oi':hks' fi.owick iionsics 

interests in the citj-, bought fifteen acres of ground and moved his 
effects to the present site near Carlton Hill where he soon afterward 
erected his beautiful residence. He now began building his glass 
houses and since that time he has added structure to structure' until the 
place has become, in appearance, a miniature city of greenhouses. 

Mr. Roehrs was married to Miss Magdalene Scliroeder, also a native 
of Hamburg, Germany, in 1877. They have seven children, live boys 
and two girls. The eldest son, Julius, is now completing his education 
in the science of Botany at St. Albans, England, at which place is one 
of the largest flower gardens in the world. Mr. Koehrs trade is in the 
wholesale line solely. Following is a description of his gard.-n by one 
who has had an intimate knowledge of it from the beginning. 

"There is no i)art of tile world where the growing of ornamental- 
leafed plants and cultivation for cut (lowers is more successfull \- carried 



399 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

on. than on the grounds of Mr. Julius Koehrs near the crest of the 
Showhank ridge. In fact there is no part of the old world that can boast 
of a similar establishment. The growers of Europe are amazed at seeing 
such an immense stock of well-grown plants. Mr. Roehrs himself is 
what may be justly called an intense product. He is Hortits iiia.xinium in 
the plant growing world. That he began in a small way is a credit to 
his skill, industry and preseverance. Taking a look into his houses we 
see specialities grown, to meet the demands of the most critical retail 
trade. We find Orchids growing as perfectly and as profusely as in 
their natiye soil. Of these there are 20,000 Catteyas of rare yarieties, 
and more than 5000 strong clumps of Cypripediums of the standard 
sorts, as well as the more rare noyelties. His Orchid collectors are in 
every field where these beautiful plants are found, India, the Phillipine 
Island and South America are constantly contributing to his collection. 
Mr. Roehrs grows 1,000,000 Lily-of-the-valley pips annually, and any 
day of the year these delicate flowers may be had in reasonable quant- 
ities. But few, if any, of the seed merchants of our country sell, as 
many, as he alone grows. Lilacs both white and purple are here forced 
in such quantities as to supply the market from Christmas until they 
can be cut in the open air. 250,000 Tulips, Hyacinths and Narcissus 
are annually disposed of here, and 20,000 choice Azaleas, large and 
small, are yearly grown for the Easter Trade. In his Palm houses are 
all the better varieties by the thousand, all in perfect health and 
beauty. 

"Mr. Roehrs selected this fine location about twelve years ago and 
immediately began the work of erecting and preparing his present ideal 
establishment, and at this time has sixty greenhouses with an area of 
125,000 square feet, or about three acres. In addition to all these he 
grows roses of only choice varieties and on a large scale, besides any 
other flowers the trade may demand. The system adopted here, permits 
of no idle house room or idle houses, the moment one plant has furnished 
its flowers or perfected its growth, it must make room for another, 
thus forming a constant succession. There are in all about forty men 
empkn^ed, and all are kept busy." 

GKOKCE C. WOOLSON. 

George C. Woolson, florist, and senior member oi the firm of Wool- 
son & Co., Wallington, N. J., is a native of Massachusetts, born in the 
town of Hopkinton, that State, July 20, 1848. His father Levi Wod- 
scm, now eighty-seven years of age, is a prosperous farmer from which 
occupation young Woolson, no doubt, learned to love nature in general 
and living plants in particular. After graduation from the high school 
of Hopkint(m, in 1807, he entered the Agricultural College at Amherst, 
Mass., from which institution he took the degree of B. S., in 1871. 
Having become proficient in a technical knowledge of the studies, which 
he had been pursuing he was offered and accepted the Assistant Editor- 
ship of the "Hearth and Home," and the "American Agriculturist," 



HISTOKY OF BKKC.KN COUNTY .Vtl 

under the management of the well known botanist, the eminent Dr. 
(ieorire Thurber, to which position he was called in i87(), one year be- 
fore taking- his degree from the colleg-e. He remained actively engaged 
in this capacity until 1.S77. In 1885 he was made superintending Gard- 
ener of the department of Public Parks of the city of New York, having 
passed a very severe Civil Service examination and securing the highest 
rating of twelve applicants, and for seven years devoted his time to 
planting and otherwise adorning the parks from the Battery to the 
Harlem Kiver. As the homes of Dr. Thurber and Mr. Wf)olson were 
one, they were brought into constant companionship and this gave him 
the privilege of making the acquaintance of man^- eminent scientists of 
both Europe and this country. Mr. Woolson came to Wallington in 
December i870, and five years later married Miss Sarah Martin Thurber, 
the sister of Dr. Thurber. They have ever since resided here. 

Mr. Woolson was the first in this part of the countr3^ to engage in 
the cultivation of hardy perennial plants for commercial purposes. In 
18<S'>, he purchased the seven and one-half acres he now occupies, since 
which time his nursery has steadily kept pace with the demands of the 
trade. Mr. Woolson has also been prominent in the borough of Walling- 
ton. He was school trustee and district clerk for nine years, and takes 
an active interest in all things affecting the welfare of his part of Ber- 
gen county. He was made a Mason in Passaic Lodge, No. 67, in 1883, 
and from that time until the present has held some oiBce in his Lodge, 
serving as Worshipful Master in 1889-'%. He is now and has been for 
five years Historian of his Lodge. For six years he was a member of 
various committees in the Grand Lodge of New Jersey. In 1884 he was 
elected and exalted in Centennial Chapter of P. M. 34, of Royal Arch 
Masons. For the past six years he has been High Priest of this Chap- 
ter, and has received high honors in the Grand Chapter of this State, 
now holding the office of (irand King. In 1S8.S he was knighted in Mor- 
ton Commandery, No. 4, of New York city, and in 1890 joined Mecca 
Temple and was made an Illustrious Noble of the Mystic Shrine of New 
York city. He also holds a membership in the Fraternal Union of 
.Xnnointed High Priests of New York. 

DIV. CICOKCIH TIll'Klil'.lv'. 

George Thurl)er. <listinguished botanist, author and teacher, and for 
nearly a (piarter of a century editor of the "American Agriculturist," 
was a resident of Wallingtcm from 18()8 to 1890, where he died April 2, 
of that year. He was born on September 2, 1821, at Providence, K. I., 
where he received an apprenticeship as apothecary, at the termination of 
which he began business for himself in partnership with Joshua Chapin. 
During these years he devoted himself early to the study of chemistry 
and natural sciences in general, but especially to botany, so that at that 
early age he was already well known as one of the most accomplished 
botanists of the century. This brought him in close intimacy with Drs. 
John Tcirrev, Asa Gray, Louis Agassi/,, George iMigk'nian and other 



392 HisTOKY OF bek(;en county 

g'eiiial scientists whose warm friendshij) he enjoyed until his death. 

In 1850 Dr. Thurber was appointed quartermaster and commissary 
on the United States and Mexico Boundary Suryey, and with the special 
object to explore the flora of the hitherto unknown border regions. 
This task he accomplished in a most excellent manner, collecting- and 
bringing home with him s])ecimens of nearly all the native plants of 
that territory. 

In 185.> he received an appointment at the United States Assay 
Office, of which he and Dr. Torrey were then the Assayers. Here he 
remained until 185(>, when for political reasons he was forced to resiy;n. 
In 1859 he was appointed professor of Botany and Horticulture at the 
Michigan State Agricultural College, which he held four years and only 
resigned to accept the editorship of the American Agriculturist in 1863. 

Few men, if any, have exerted so powerful and effective an in- 
fluence on American Agriculture and Horticulture as has Dr. Thurber 
through the pages of this magazine. The botany of Appleton's Ency- 
clopedia was contributed entirely by Dr. Thurber. This excellent phar- 
macist, splendid botanist, admiral teacher and genial man, died at his 
home, at the "Beeches," in his sixty-ninth year. 

His remains were buried in Swan Point Cemetery, Providence, R. I., 
a locality where a young man he spent many happy hours in collecting 
and studying the botanical treasures formerly found in such abundance 
in this portion of the state. His affection for the young was very 
marked, and nothing so delighted him as to find a young man who was 
interested in his favorite sciences of botany and chemistry, and he was 
always ready to give that advice and friendly suggestion which so en- 
deared him to those brought into intimate relations with him. For 
many years no book was issued by the firm with which he was connected 
without his critical examination, and many of them show his handiwork 
which served to render them more practical and intelligent to the g'en- 
eral reader. 

MR. JACOB WAGNEK. 

Jacob Wagner, the first Mayor of the Borough of Wallington, is a 
native of Germany, born in Grasapsach, in the county of Backnaug, in 
the year 1835. Christian Wagner, the father, died when Jacob was but 
eleven years of age. His mother lived to the advanced age of eighty- 
six years, dying in May 1897. Mr. W^agner attended the schools of his 
native town and worked on the farm until nineteen years old, when ac- 
companied by two elder sisters, he sailed for America in the old ship 
Queen Victoria landing in New York on August 19, 1854, forty-nine 
days after leaving the father-land. During the first eighteen months, 
after coming here, Mr. Wagner worked as a hired hand for a farmer on 
Long Island, beginning on a salary of five dollars per month. Follow- 
ing this came six years or more of service for the Erie Railroad Com- 
pany, working as a common laborer. As early as 1861, he found him- 
self the happy possessor of a few hundred dollars which he immediately 



HISTOKV OF BEKGKN COUNTY 343 

invested in real estate and through other investments in realty his hund- 
reds were soon converted into thousands. Now he has large interests 
in Jersey City and elsewhere. In 1858, Mr. Wagner was married to 
Miss Whilhelmina Brecht and in 1S(>1 he bought a lot and built a house 
in Jersey City, continuing to live there until 18'tl vhen he removed to 
Wallington, where he now resides. His wife, after bearing him ten 
children, and enjoying the comforts resulting from a well ordered life, 
passed away in June 1895, leaving the husband and six children to 
mourn their loss. In 18')!, Mr. Wagner purchased of George Engle- 
man fifty acres of the old Theodore Van Idestine estate and since that 
time his interests have been centered in this borough. In 1896 he was 
chosen Mayor of his borough, which position he held till March, 1897. 
when he insisted upon retirement. 

BEKNAKD KOSTER. 

Bernard Koster, Mayor of Wallington, is a son of Henry Koster and 
Catharina Weber. He is German by birth and education, born in Atten- 
dorn, province of Westphalia, Germany, August 8, 1860. His parents 
early placed him in the elementary public school, where he remained 
until it became necessary for him to assist his father in the maintenance 
of a large family. From September i874, he was employed in the chem- 
ical works until October 30, i880, when he sailed for this country. In 
December 1880 he came to Bergen county locating at Englewood. From 
April 1883 until September 1887, he was with the late Andrew S. Ful- 
ler of Ridgewood, one of the oldest horticulturists in America. He then 
took his family to New York city, returning to Bergen county in Febru- 
ary 1889, and located in Wallington his present home. Since his return 
to Bergen county he was foreman for a number of years at the nurseries 
of Woolson & Co., hardy plants, the last five years having been spent 
as superintendent of Mr. Peter Reid's greenhouse and grounds which 
are the finest in Passaic. 

Mr. Koster is at this time president of the Catholic Benevolent 
Legion in Passaic, treasurer of the Knights of Columbus in Passaic, 
treasurer and one of the directors of the Wallington Savings Loan and 
Building Association, of which he was one of the originators, treasurer 
of the Wallington Hall Association, and an active member and the 
treasurer of Wallington Hose Company, No. 1. In addition to tluse 
Mr. Koster is affiliated with a number of Church societies of the Roman 
Catholic Church in Passaic. His military record covers a period of 
nearly nine years having enlisted Aj^ril 28, 1882. in Comi)any B, Second 
Battalion. Infantry, First Brigade, National Guards of New Jersey, and 
discharged from the service March 10, 1891. In his public achievements 
and offices, Mr. Koster jietitioned the court of Bergen county lor the 
incorjjoration of the Borough of Wallington in Ueceml)cr, 1894, which 
was granted. He was a])pointed President of the Board of Education of 
Wallington. bv the Countv Superintendent in I'^ehruary 1895, remaining 
a member of tlial Imdv cunlinunusl\- since lliat time; 1)V re-eJectiim in 



394 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUI^TY 

1895, for a term of two years, and again in 1897 for three years. In 
1895 he was elected councilman for three years, and in 1897 Mayor of 
the Boroug-h. 

Mr. Koster's marriage to Bridget Cuoney of New York was solemn- 
ized April S, 1883, at Englewood, by Rev. Father McDonald, of the 
Roman Catholic Church. 

JOHN J. POLMAXN. 

John J. Polmann, Recorder of the Borough of Wallington, was born 
in the old romantic and historic 'ALoo 'ALoo," in the Province of Gelder- 
land, Holland, July 18, 18f)0. At eighteen years of age young Polmann 
after a rigorous examination, was found fully competent to enter the 
profession of teaching, beginning work in the school room at once, a 
position for which he was well fitted both by education and natural 
ability. After teaching one year he was forced into the military ser- 
vice, where he served his country eighteen months. Upon his return 
home, he immediately entered again upon his chosen field of labor and 
taught school in Texel for a continuous period of five years. In 1883 he 
married Miss Cornelia Kooiman, and with his wife sailed for America in 
1887. The struggle for a new home now began and after a trial, first 
in Chicago, then in Passaic N. J., and subsequently in Staten Island, 
they finally came to Wallington in 1894, where they have prospered and 
find a congenial home. Mr. Polmann purchased the property where he 
now lives, success having followed all his enterprises since coming here. 
He is recognized as a leader in public affairs and consequently many 
honors have been thrust upon him. He has been Clerk of the Borough, 
and is now by appointment, serving as Recorder of the Borough; is a 
member of the Board of Education and President of the Fire Depart- 
ment. He is also a director of the Wallington Building and Loan Asso- 
ciation, and a director of the Public Hall Associatii)n. In March 18'».s 
the citizens of the borough elected him Justice of the Peace, by a nearly 
unanimous vote. 

JAMES SOOP. 

Mr. James Soop. Councilman of Wallington Borough, and for over 
twenty-five years engineer on the Pavonia Ferry, was born in Albany. 
N. Y., October f>, 1843. At the age of fourteen young Soop was earn- 
ing wages, as a deck hand, on board a steamboat. At sixteen he was 
made fireman on the "Ohio," and continued in that capacity till twenty- 
one years of age. In 1865 he received license as engineer and served 
first on the "Cayuga," a Hudson river boat that plied between Albany 
and New York. 

After the war he served as oiler for a few years on steamships run- 
ning from New York to Richmond, New Orleans and other places South, 
but in 1873 accepted the position he still holds. March 19, 1873, he was 
married to Miss Emma J. Turner, of Albany, N. Y., and two days later 
the young couple began housekeeping in Jersey City. In 1888 two lots 
were purchased and a house built in Wallington, where they have since 
resided. 




ADKIKN D. Sn.I.IVAN 



HISTOKY OK BKKCKN COUNTY 395 

Mr. Soop was one nf tho ])r(iin( iters of tlie boroug'h ^overniiu'iit and 
is at present a member of the council. He is president of the Buildin";- 
and Loan Association, of which he was one of the originators, and is 
now a director. He is also a trustee and treasurer of the Presbyterian 
Church; is a Mason and Past Master of a Lodge in Jersey City and for 
eighteen years he has l)een a member of Pioneer Council No. 22, Royal 
Arcanum. 

ADKIAN ]). Sl'LI.IV.VX. 

Adrian D. Sullivan was l)orn in Saratoga county, New York, not far 
from the spot where was fought one of the decisive battles of the 
world's history. 

He attended the public school of his native town, and later, the 
I'niversity of Ohio, where he also gained his legal education. Here his 
keen, penetrating, judicial mind made him a marked student. 

In i89(), he married Miss Lucia Meek MacFaddin, a well known 
and highly respected young lady of Des Moines, Iowa. Three children, 
two sons and one daughter, have come to bless his home. He moved to 
Passaic in l.S')4, and was admitted to the bar in New Jersey the follow- 
ing June. The people were not slow to recognize his genius. His 
])ractice soon became eminent and lucractive, and he now numbers 
among his clients, many of the most prciminent people of the city. 

During his first year in practice, he gained a wide reputation as a 
jury lawyer. He ever shows a willingness to champion the cause of men 
unjustly attacked. For justice, he is bold and brave; toward oppression, 
scornful and tierce. He is free from tlie sordid mercenary motives that 
control too many men of the present day. 

Lawyer Sullivan, on account of his location among the foreign 
element in Passaic, has identified himself in feeling with those oppressed 
people, and has frequently defended them without fees, when they were 
being made the victims of injustice. He understands the Slavonians 
and Hungarians in their virtues and in their vices; in their sufferings 
and in their wrongs. He is their friend, and they, in return, love him: 

His personal manners are unpresuming and unpretending; his in- 
tercourse with people being marked by cordiality and dignity, and liis 
demeanor as simple as his spirit is sincere. His candid, open nianiu-r 
and high sense of justice h;ive made him universally resjjected. and 
his friends are numerous. 

MK. TIIOM.VS K. C(JI.LINS. 

Tliomas K. C(dlins, the subject of this sketch is a i)roininent con- 
tractor in the plumbing business with offices in Passaic and Wallington. 
He is a native of Canada, born in Toronto, in 18()4, and was educated in 
the public schools of that city. When sixteen years of age he came to 
New York, where he worked five years for Cassidy & Son, chandelier 
manufacturers, and the following eleven years was in the employ of J. 
W. Fiske in his Ornamental Iron Works. In IHS.^. he married .Miss 
Mary Crone, removing to Wallington the foll<iwing year. His brother 



396 HI.STOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

John Ctillins, \vhi> had carried on the plumbing- business in Canada, came 
here in 18'».i, when a partnership was formed by the brothers, Thomas 
being a silent partner. In 1897, the shop was built in Wallino-ton, while 
the oiSce and show-room in Passaic, was opened in December, of the 
same year. 

As plumbers the Collins Brothers do a large business. They have 
just completed St. Mary's Hospital, the largest plumbing contract ever 
given out in Passaic. Contracts have also been taken for five or six 
hotels belonging to the Midland Beach Traction Company, on Staten 
Island. Nine practical plumbers are in their employ. 

Mr. Collins is also a member of the firm of DeVogel & Co., builders. 
He was one of the promotors of the borough system, of Wallington ; 
was elected Councilman, holding the office two years and re-elected for 
three years, 'being made President of the Board. He was made Record- 
er in March, of this year, while two years ago he was elected Justice of 
the Peace. He is Vice-President of the Building and Loan Association. 
Secretary of the Public Hall Association, and was also one of the 
organizers of the Wallington Hose Company. He was a member of the 
School Board but resigned. His wife died in 1894, leaving him three 
children. 

MR. LOUIS DANKHOFF, 

Mr. Louis Dankhoff (1836-1893) was born at Pietz, near Berlin, 
Germany. He came to America in 1860 with his family settling at 
Pittsfield, Mass. Eventually he became superintendent of Libby's 
Woolen Mill at Warren, Mass., which position he held for fifteen years. 
In 1880 he settled at Passaic, N. J. He was appointed overseer at Am- 
midown's Woolen Mill. In 1882, Mr. Dankhoff purchased the well- 
known saloon on Passaic Street. In 1887 he bought a large tract of 
land in Wallington of the Anderson Lumber Company, and in the same 
year built a large hotel on the Plank Road. He was one of the first 
business men to settle here. 

Mr. Dankhoff was also an inventor. He invented a number of 
articles one of which was his double beer faucet which sold so widely. 
His father was known abroad as the inventor of the now lost art of 
permanently enameling the colors, red, blue and white on ironware. The 
book containing the formula was destroyed by fire, and when he died the 
secret died with him. 

Mr. Dankhoff was an influential member of a number of lodges: — 
The Odd Fellows, Red Men, and United Friends. He died in his hotel, 
leaving a widow and two married daughters. 

WOODKIDGK. 

Woodridgc is one of the most beautiful localities in this part of the 
county. The wooded ridge, suggesting the name, runs parallel with 
the Palisade from Rutherford to Hackensack at a high elevation, mak- 
iny: a natural drainage of great value. 



HISTORY OK BEKGEN COUNTY 



yri 




THK KOHBEKTZ MANSION - FOK SAI.li 



The two hundred acres of land covering- this site was taken up l)y 
Georg-e Brinkerhoff who came from Holland to America in 1()3S, and to 
New Jersey in 1685. This property has remained largely in the family 
until the present time. About the close of the War of the Rebellion, 
Henry Gerecke purchased a part of this farm with a view of selling it 
out for building lots, and for which he paid $5,000 but the expectations 
of Mr. Gerecke were not realized and the land reverted to its former 
owners. 

In the meantime Mr. Frederick Kohbertz became interested in the 
success of the village and in 1870 the town was laid out and under his 
guiding hand buildings began to take the place of desert waste. 

Originally the Dutch settled here and in this vicinity in the seven- 
teenth century, locating mostly on the Pt>lilly road. Their houses were 
built one story principall}-, having walls of l)rownstone with a widely 
I)rojecting roof shading a porch extending around on three sides ot the 
building. 

The borough of Woodridge was organized on tlie I'Hh day of Janu- 
ary 1895, at the office of Franz Fritsch. A. Molinari, was the first 
Mayor; the lirst Council consisting of Henry E. Brinkerhoff, Josejih if. 
Schmitt, Louis A. Eurrard, Franz Fritsch, Isidore Lazard, l'"red 
Kohl)ertz; Assessor. Emil Pirovano; Collector, .Alfred Gramlich; Clerk. 
\V. II. White. 

On .March 14. l.S't'», the following officers were elected: Mayor .\. 
.Molinari; Council, Franz Fritsch, Frank C. Ball; Assessor, Emil II. 
Pirovano; Collector, .Alfred Gramlich; Franz Fritsch, Freeholder; Clerk, 
W. H. White. 




ANTON MOLINAKI. 



HISTOKY OK BEKGEN COUNTY 399 

THE KOHBEKTZ MANSION. — FOR SALE. 

Mr. Frederick Kohbertz, one of the prime movers in the buildin<rup 
of the village of Woodridge, a man of great energy and perseverance, 
determined to use his best efforts to make it a model village of country 
homes. In 1870 the town was laid out and buildings began to take the 
place of trees and underbrush. Mr. Kohbertz's own residence and 
grounds, where he formerly lived, is a place of beauty and an ornament 
to that part of the country. It is a large and commodious mansion of 
twenty rooms, with wide halls. The house is supplied with gas and 
water, and all other modern improvements and equipments. Three acres 
of park laid out in the most artistic manner surround the house, fine 
stables built in a style of architecture to correspond with that of the 
house all go to make the whole a most beautiful and desirable property 
as a residence, a club house, or private school. Mr. Kohbertz aban- 
doned it as a family residence, only when his family became reduced and 
a small house better suited his convenience. The cost of this beautiful 
place, including grounds, was seventy-five thousand dollars, and now it 
can be bought for one third of its original value. 

Mr. Kohbertz has expended large sums of money in various ways, 
for the benefit of the village, working for the introduction of electric 
light, water mains, street grading and other conveniences, at all times 
endeavoring to preserve a rural appearance. He donated a church plot, 
used his influence in securing good schools, and also a fire department. 

He is still in the Real Estate business, seeking always to attract 
desirable settlers to his place by keeping the price of ground at fairly 
low prices, taxes being within proper limits. 

ANTON MOLINAKI. 

Anton Molinari, Mayor of Woodridge, and proprietor of a manu- 
factory at that place is an Italian by blood but Polish by birth and 
American by adoption. His grandfather was a native of Venice, 
Italy, but being disturbed by the Austrians under the great Napoleon, 
took up his residence in Lombardy, France. Julian, his son, father of 
our subject becoming interested as a Revolutionist in 1863, in the un- 
successful war Poland waged against Russia, lost his home, fortune and 
all in the part he took in that unfortunate struggle for liberty. Being 
proscribed he left the continent to avoid banishment to Siberia, after- 
wards visiting this country. 

Anton Mt)linari was born in Poland in 1856. When seven years of 
age he attended school in Paris, France, and before eighteen years of 
age sailed for the city of New York, reaching that place July 4, 1874. 
After learning the trade of machinist in Boston he came to New York 
in 1884, where he worked as a common laborer until 1880, when he 
established a plant and laid the foundations of his jjresent industrv. In 
1889 he moved his effects to Woodridge, built a house and factory here 
where he has continued to the present time. Mr. Molinari employs 




Al.l Ki;ii CRAMLICH 



HISTOKY OV HKKOHN COUNTY 



401 



thirtv-five hands in the ni.iniifacturo nf all kinds of suri^-ical instru- 
inonls for the trade. 

January 15, 1S*»5. Mr. Mdlinari was elected Mayor (d' \V(i(>drid!:^-e, 
and has been re-elected to that position three times since. He and his 
paternal ancestors have been Republicans. He himself takes great 
interest in Americanism, but eschews politics as a jjrofession. 

AI.KKKD CKAMI.ICH. 

Alfred (iramlich one of the officials of the Borouyh of \\'<iodrid!^e, 
and for a number of years train despatcher on the Erie railroad, Jersey 
City, is a native of Carlstadt, and was born June 29th, 1866. At twelve 
years of a^e vounsj;- Cramlich left school, since whi^'h time, now a period 




HKSIDKNCKS OF F. KOHHKKTZ AND ALFRED GR.\MUCH 



of twenty years, he has been enga<»-ed in the railroad business in some 
capacity. His father, one of the promoters of Carlstadt, was the lirst 
ailment at that station for the New Jersey and New York Railroad Com- 
pany, and being- in need of a telegraph operator, both of his sons were 
put into training, in due time becoming experts in the use of the wires. 
They were now assigned to positions by this company, and for years 
succeeding such appointments, hard work followed in offices at various 
stations along the line, until not only the needed experience w-as acijuired, 
but also the confidence of the company respecting their worthiness and 
responsibility, was attained. Then followed better pay with less labor. 
.\lfred (xramlich was stationed first at Cherry Hill, N. J., in 1S7S. In a 
year or so he was i)laced at River Edge, going from there to Hills(lak\ in 
the Superintendent's office. In 1887 he left the New Jersey and New 



402 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 




KJ-IMDKNCK OK ANTON MOLINAKI 

York road and went to Jersey City, where in IS'X) he became train 
despatcher for the Erie Railroad, which position he has tilled with 
marked ability for the past eight years. In his present position Mr. 
Gramlich has oversight of all freight and passenger trains from Jersey 
City to Port Jervis, from eleven in the evening until seven o'clock in the 
morning, a responsible position, to which he was appointed because of 
his peculiar fitness for the place. 

Mr. Gramlich has always taken an active part in politics. He was 
one of the first Republicans elected in the township of Bergen, being 
elected to the ofi&ce of Township Clerk. He was also member of the 
Board of Education for the township, resigning both offices when the 
borough was organized. He is a member of the Republican County 
Committee, having been elected first to that office in 1895, and was 
elected Collector of the borough upon its organization and has held.the 
office ever since. Although indifferent to office, he is yet public spirited 
enough to share in the responsibilities necessary to good government. 
Mr. Gramlich purchased ground and built his residence in 1890, and in 
the fall of that year married Miss Anna Kohbertz, cousin of Frederick 
Kohbertz of Woodridge. They have three children. 



HKNKV E. BKINKEKHOFF. 

George, the progenitor of the Brinkerhoff family in Bergen county, 
emigrated to America from Holland in 1().^S. He came to New Jersey 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 403 

in 1()S5, and purchased a tract of t\vo hundred acres of land which is 
still owned and occupied by the family. Of the three other brothers 
who came at the same time, one settled in New York, one went West 
and the other made a home in New Jersey. Two of George's sons, 
Henry G. and Jacob, settled in Lodi and divided the farm each taking- 
one hundred acres. Henry married Rachel Vreeland, and of this union 
two sons were born. Enoch, the young^er became a leading man in his 
locality, taking- an active part in the political interests of his townshij) 
which he represented in the Assembly during one term. 

He married Mary Berry, a daughter of John W. Berry, who was one 
of the early settlers of the county. Enoch and Mary { Berry ) Brinker- 
hoff were the parents of Henry E., who was born at Polifly near Wood- 
ridge, April 8, 1833, and now resides on the old homestead. He was 
educated in New York city, at the Boys' High School. 

Mr. Brinkerhoff served in the Hackensack Continentals about five 
years, until the militia was reorganized in the state under the "New 
Jersey Rifle Corps Act," when he was made lieutenant in Company G, 
and afterwards captain of Company A, when it became a part of the 
National Guard of New Jersey. Mr. Brinkerhoff is also prominent in 
his town in an official capacity, havingf filled many positions of trust. 
He is well known in business being an extensive farmer and a large 
land owner. His marriag-e to Miss Sarah Terhune connects him with 
another of the old families of the county. 

CHAKM.ICS LINK. 

Charles Link, present township clerk and Justice of the Peace for 
Bergen township, is a native of Berlin, Germany, and was born in 1848. 
Mr. Link was educated in the public schools of Germany. He came to 
New York immediately after leaving school, eng-aging for some time 
in manufacturing establishments as a common workman. In i88(>, how- 
ever, he went to Philadelphia as foreman for a firm, and followed the 
I)rofession of Veterinary Surgeon for several years in that city. 

In 1891 Mr. Link came to New Jersey and established his bleachery 
in Jersey City, and in 1895 purchased propert_v, and started a fac- 
tory in Bergen township, where he chemically treats some .SO.dOO 
sheepskins annually for the drug trade, employing three and four men 
constantly. 

Mr. Link belongs to several clubs and societies, and is well and 
favorably known. He was elected Justice of the Peace in 18'»S, and 
Township Clerk in 1899. 

HASHKOrCK HKICIITS. 

Hasbrouck Heights situated about two miles south of Hackensack 
on the Polifly road, has a territory of about one and a half square miles 
and lies about one hundred and seventy-five feet above tide water. 

Previous to 1870 this district was a farming community, comprising 
such families as Enoch Vreeland, Abram A. Ackerman, Christian P. 



404 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

Terhune, John Van Bussum, Henry Ackerman, Richard Berdan, Rich- 
ard Terhune, John H. Berdan, Isaac Gott, Henry Kipp, Robert Williams 
and Garry Kipp. Since 1870 outside capital has become interested. 
Lord & Van Cleeve bought the land known as the Richard Terhune. 
farm, Meyer & Smith bought part of the Richard Berdan farm, all of 
the farm of J. H. Berdan, and an Association known as the Center 
Corona Land and Building Association bought the Henry Kipp farm. 
Of all this property purchased, no improvement was made until 1874, 
then Henry Kipp foreclosed a mortgage on the property held by the 
Center Corona Land and Building Association, and built about eight 
houses, which were occupied soon after. During all this time and up to 
1889 this place was known as Corona and was part of Lodi township. 

In 1889 Daniel P. Morse, of New York, bought the farms of Henry 
Ackerman, Chris. Terhune and part of the John Van Bussum farm, 
which he laid out in building plots, making macadamized streets, and 
bluestone sidewalks, and immediately began the erection of buildings, 
thus giving the town the first and most substantial start. The follow- 
ing year, Mr. Henry Lemmermann, another New York business man, 
then owning the Richard Terhune property, began to improve it by lay- 
ing out streets and building houses. It was owing to the efforts of 
these two men, that water and electric lights were first introduced. 

In 1894 Hasbrouck Heights separated from the township, holding 
an election July .^Ist, of the same year. The people by their ballot 
carried the election for incorporation, and the Borough was incorpor- 
ated August 12th. The first election for Borough officials was held 
September 11th with the following results : John H. Garrison, Mayor; 
G. W. Selleck, S. P. Ferdon. R. F. Taggart, John W, Charlton, Andrew 
McCabe and -Will D. Crist, Councilmen. These officers served until 
March 12th 1895, when another election was held with the following 
results: J. W. Charlton, Mayor; George W, Selleck, W. D. Crist. S. P. 
Ferdon, S. P. Frier, Henry Gross, and John Behrens, Councilmen. The 
present officers of the borough are: William S. Laurence, Mayor; John 
E. Musselman, F. S. Chesebro, John H, Garrison, E. A. Capen, E. W. 
Biesecker and S. P. Frier, Councilmen. Since the incoi^poration all the 
officials have done nobly in building up the borough. It has to-day a 
population of about thirteen hundred, a $14,000 brick school house, five 
churches, two social clubs, one weekly newspaper, a Hook and Ladder 
Company, Hose Company, Royal Arcanum, and "Council", besides 
prosperous stores. The village is situated so high above tide water as 
to make it a healthy spot, while the magnificent views render it a place 
<if beauty. — W. S. Laurence. 

CHURCHES OF HASBKOUCK HEIGHTS. 
METHODIST CHUKCH. 

The Methodist church was the first religious organization in Has- 
brouk Heights. For a long- time itinerant preachers held service at stated 



IIISTOKV OF BKKi;i:x COTNTY 4().-i 

periods, finally succeeding in the organization of a class, a Ladies' Aid 
Society and Sabbath school, members of other denominations assisting 
in the work. In 1878, Rev. W. H. Russell, from Brooklyn, N. Y., the 
present pastor of the church, came in answer to a call, and through his 
labors a chapel was built, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Valentine, Mr. and 
Mrs. J. W. Alexander, Charles Ackerman and others being the prime 
movers in this work. 

The present church edifice was erected some five or more years ago, 
and the Rev. Mr. Russell, after an absence of twetity-one years, is again 
conducting a successful ministry. 

KKFOKMED CHUKCH. 

The Reformed Church was organized February 11th, ls<».^, previous 
meetings having been held looking toward the establishment of this 
society. Both the Reformed and the Baptist churches had their origin 
in a Sabbath school, for a long time conducted by W. A. Fisher, in the 
chapel. On January 5th, 1893, the people, with the Ladies' Aid Society, 
met to organize a church. A. M. Paulison, W. A. Fisher and W. G. 
Martin were the first elders ordained, and Henry Lemmermann, Henry 
Kiel and A. K. Goodrich were the first deacons. These officers, with 
one or two changes, remain the same. Mr. Lemmermann and Mr. Kile 
are now elders, their place as deacons being filled by J. Behrens and 
Frank O. Peckham. Dr. C. L Shepard has been their only pastor. 

He is a native of New York city, was born in 1827, is a graduate of 
Rutger's College, New Jersey, and for a term of twenty-four years was 
pastor of the church at Newtown, L. L Dr. Shepard was president of 
the General Synod of 1887, president i)f the Particular Synod of New 
Brunswick in 1896, and chairman of the committee on Education for 
Academics and Colleges, for the Synod of 1897, and president of tlu- 
Board of Publication for 189f,. The annex to the old chapel was Iniilt 
in 189."v 

THK BAPTIST CHI'KCIl. 

The Bai)tist church wasorganized Decemlier 22. 1892, and iiKor])()r- 
ated November 27, 189.^. The church building was begun November 
21, of the same year, and the corner stone laid January 1, 1894. Rev. 
(ieorge B. Griffin was the first pastor, and filled the pulpit from Decem- 
ber 25, 1892, to February 4, 1894. He was succeeded by Rev. Charles 
Stanley Pease, who served from April 5, 1894, to April 5, 1896. He left 
the church free from debt and was succeeded by the Rev. Ackland Boyle, 
who supplied the pulpit for a time on a salary of eight dollars per week 
and was called to the pastorate. May 22, of that year. He was succeed- 
ed by the ])resent acting pastor. Rev. (ieorgc L. Hunt, D. D. of New 
York city. 

The first deacons of the church were K. F. Taggart, (George W. 
Davis, George Kiel Jr., and George W. Selleck. 

The church membership has increased and a flourishing Sabbath 
School of over sixty scholars is maintained the year round. 



406 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

V 
THE ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH. 

The Roman Catholic Church is a beautiful structure on Kipp 
Avenue, built in 1896. This was started by Mrs. Mary A. Murtha, 
who, feeling- the need of a place to worship nearer than the church at 
Lodi, visited Bishop Wigger at Newark, and having- received permis- 
sion and letters from him, set about the work of securing a house and a 
church organization. 

Mrs. Murtha was assisted in the enterprise by her faithful husband, 
through whose untiring efforts the money, amounting to $2700, was 
raised and the chapel built. Edward M. Anson donated the t-wo lots 
on which the house stands, and Father John A. Sheppard has charg-e 
of the flock. The church has a membership of about fifty souls and is 
growing. 

Both Mr. and Mrs. Murtha are natives of Ireland. They were mar- 
ried Jul}- 14, 1895. Mr. Murtha is a prominent contractor and builder 
in New York. He erected the Bachelor apartments on Twenty-third 
street, the Progress Club on Howard street and Broadway and other 
high class buildings in the city. They bought their present residence 
in 1896. 

CHURCH OF .ST. JOHN THE DIVINE. 

The young and growing congregation of the Church of St. John 
the Divine, in Hasbrouck Heights deserves more than passing- notice. 

Although but little more than three years since its organization, it 
has become a stronghold in the community. Realizing the need of a 
church home for those who were of the Episcopal faith, a meeting was 
called for May 17, 1895, when an organization was effected. The first 
service was held about one month later on June 28, in the old school build- 
ing. Afterward the congregation purchased this building, which they 
remodeled and dedicated, the dedication being conducted by William R. 
Jenvey, assisted by Dr. Holley, of Hackensack, Rev. Ladd, of Ruther- 
ford, and several others of the clergy. 

The organization is now under the direction of the Right Reverend 
Thomas A. Starkey, D. D., bishop of the diocese of Newark, the services 
at present being conducted by lay reader J. Montier DeVoll, of the 
General Theological Seminary of New York city. 

The present board of three trustees hold the property of the diocese 
are as follows, under appointment by the Bishop: Eugene W. Dunstan, 
chairman; Richard Berdan, Jr., secretary; John L. Dean, treasurer; 
Edwin F. Benedict, financial secretary. The congregation and Sun- 
day school are increasing steadily and the results are thus far gratifying. 

WILLIAM SUMNER LAURENCE. 

William Sumner Laurence, the present Mayor of Hasbrouck Heights, 
was born in Boston, Massachusetts, October 8, 1854, and was educated 
in the public schools of Newton, Massachusetts. In business he has 
always been connected with the wholesale shoe trade, being with one 
house in Boston for a period of eighteen years and is now a stockholder 




NMI.I.IAM S. I.AfKlCNCl-; 



408 



HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 



and director in the firm of Morse & Roij;ers, 134-140 Duane Street, New 
York, the largest shoe, rubber and linding-s jobbers in New York city. 
He has been with this house for nine years. 

He was elected Mayor of Hasbrouck Heights, March 1897, and was 
re-elected in 1899. He is also a director of Hasbrouck Heights Building 
and Loan Association, director of Star Building and Loan Association 
of New York city, has been two terms president of Hasbrouck Heights 
Field Club; also a member of the executiye committee of Seward League 
of Hasbrouck Heights. The last named is a Republican organization. 
Mr. Laurence has also been a member of the Hasbrouck Heights Board 
of Education two terms. 

Mr. Laurence's wife is Lydia A., daughter of Captain Myer Brad- 
bury, of Machias, Maine. 




JOHN VAN BUSSX'M. 

The old homestead of the Van Bussum family at Peck Hook, be- 
tween Lodi and Passaic, was first occupied by David D. Van Bussum of 
Revolutionary fame, who settled in this part of Lodi some time before 
that vital struggle. Of his three sons, two died in early youth, but 
David D., the father of the subject of this sketch, lived to the advanced 
age of eighty-eight years. He was a member of the State Legislature 
from 1837 to 184(», and was for a time Judge of the Court of Common 
Pleas, He died in the year 1879. 

His youngest son, John Van Bussum was born at the old homestead 
February 9th 1837. He has always lived in the immediate vicinity, 
and now occupies a very pleasant resldenci at Hasbrouck Heights, less 
than one mile from the place of his birth. He is a man of sterling 
worth and one of the leading Democratic politicans of Bergen county; 



HISTOKV OK BKKCKN COINTY 4(1') 

has been Assessor of Lodi township since 187(>; a member of the County 
Executive Committee since 1870; was elected to the State Assembly in 
ISSl, and thrice re-elected. He was Freeholder in 1S()7 and held the 
position uninterruptedly for nine years, ag-ain assumin<r its duties six 
years ago. He has occupied many minor positions of trust, and is 
always foremost in every measure promoting- the public weal, In 18r>7 
he was married to Miss Katharine .^nna Voorhis, a member of one of 
the oldest and best known families of Bergen countv. 

Mr. Van Bussum is possessed of untiring- energv and perseverance, 
and has overcome obstacles that would have crushed any person of ordi- 
nary- endurance. Like all men of positive character, he has some 
enemies, but many strong- personal friends, and is very popular in his 
locality. The poor and afflicted know where to find a helper, and they 
never leave his doors unaided. Generous to a fault, he scatters his 
benefactions on every side. 

HENRY LEMMKKMANX. 

Henry Lemmermann, the president of the Mattson Rubber Com- 
pany, New York, is a well known resident of Hasbrouck Heights. He 
was born in Germany in 1848, and came to America in 1863. After 
coming- to New York he was employed in a grocery store for some years 
but eventually embarked in the hotel business, in which he continued 
until 1890, when he became actively engaged in the manufacture of 
rubber goods. At that time he became president of the "Mattson Rub- 
ber Company," and still remains in that office. Previous to this, in 
1884, he bought a farm of Mr. Terhune at Corcma, N. J. (now Has- 
brouck Heights), and in i891 built his present residence. He immedi- 
ately afterward began improving the land and prei)aring it for building, 
by opening streets, making sidewalks, planting shade trees, introducing 
water (The Hackensack Water Company ), and supplying electric lights. 
He then, through the Hasbrouck Heights Land and Im])r()vement 
Comi)an>', built about thirty cottages. In 18<».^ lie organized the 
"Lemmermann Villa Site Company," of which be has been president and 
treasurer ever since. He is also president of the Hasbrouck Heights 
Building, Loan and Savings Association an<l lias been continuously, 
since its organization in .lune 1S')(). 

Mr. Lemmermann is a Past Supreme Representative of the Knights 
of Pythias, was Grand Chancellor of Knights of Pythias of New York 
ill 1878, and at this time is the treasurer of the Pythian Home of New 
York. He is also a member of the Masonic Order and the Koyal 
-Vrcanum, president of the Pioneer Club of Hasbrouck IKights and a 
member of the New Commercial Club of New York. He has been Town- 
ship Committeeman of Lodi township and a councilman of the Borough 
of Hasbrouck Heights and a member of the Board of Health. 

Mr. Lemmermann was married in ls72, to Miss Willielmina (iross, 
daughter of F. C. Gross of Hackensack, N.J. 



410 



HISTOKY OF BERGEN COUNTY 



EDWAKD M. ANSON. 

Kdward M. Anson was born at Hyde Park, Dutchess county, New 
York, June 4, 185(). His ancestors are English, who for several gener- 
ations have been in America. He was educated in the public schools of 
Lockport, Niagara county, New York, and at the early age of fourteen 
years was employed as telegraph operator in the oil regions of Butler 
county, Pennsylvania, later being employed by the Western Union 
Company in the cities of Buffalo, Chicago, Cincinnati, St. Louis and 
New York. When the St. Louis Convention met, which nominated 
Samuel J. Tilden for president, Mr. Anson was one of the five operators 
of Chicago chosen to attend to the telegraphic business of the meeting, 
and again at the Cincinnati Convention when Rutherford B. Haves was 




KDWAKD M. ANSON, ESO. 

nominated he was chosen to act in the same capacity. In 1877, Mr. 
Anson came to New York as chief operator in the main office, where he 
remained twelve years. In April 1892, he left the service, to engage in 
real estate business, in which he has ever since continued. 

Hasbrouck Heights has a prospei'ous "Building, Loan and Savings 
Association" of which Mr. Anson was one of the organizers and for six 
years its secretary. He was the organizer and secretary of Hasbrouck 
Heights Land and Improvement Company, and also organizer and secre- 
tary of the Lemmermann Site Company. Since beginning business Mr. 
Anson has built over one hundred houses and brought out from the city 
more than one thousand residents. While devoting time and energy to 
the upbuilding of his borough, alth(}ugh not seeking office or self- 



HISTOKY OK BKKGEN COUNTY 411 

interest, he was elected postmaster in November IS'IJ?, holdinfi^ the office 
for a period of four years, and in iH't(> was elected Justice of the Peace. 
Socially he is a member of a number of org'anizations at Hasbrouck 
Heiifhts. the Pioneer Club, Hasbrouck Heights Field Club, and the 
Roval Arcanum; is also a member of the "Old Time Telegraphic Asso- 
ciation." "Telegraphers' Mutual Benefit Association," and "Teleg- 
ra])hers" Aid Society." 

Mr. Anson was married to Miss Margaret E. Crawford of New York 
city, .\pril 16, 1879. He is a highly esteemed citizen both in his public 
life and in his private character. 

jri)t;K HKNKY KIPP. 

The following is taken almost wholly from the "New York Tri- 
bune" of January 12, 18'*f>: 

One of the most unique characters in Bergen county. New Jersey, is 
Henry Kipp. He presents a strong type of the early settlers, who in 
1()4(), ascended the Hackensack River and established a trading post to 
barter with the Hackensack Indians who were then masters of the land. 
Mr. Kipp's ancestors were a part of that sturdy Dutch colony which laid 
the foundation of so many communities near New York. His name 
comes down through a record of three hundred and fifty years, the 
family history going back to the De Kypes of Alencon, France, the first 
conspicuous member being Boloff De Kype, whose chateau was burned 
and lands confiscated by the Prince of Conde. Hendrick De Kype, son 
of Boloff, and progenitor of the American Kips, was born in 1576, com- 
ing to Amsterdam in 1635. In 1657 he was selected by Governor Stuy- 
vesant as one of twenty families, comprising the aristocracy, and was 
otherwise honored. 

Henry second moved from New Amsterdam to the western Ixnmdary 
of New Jersey, on the Delaware River, where he remained a few years, 
when he returned towards New York and settled at Polifly on the King's 
Highway in 1685. The ne.xt year the name was changed to Ki]), as 
shown in a deed of that date, a second "p" being added by a later 
member of the family. 

In Polifly the direct male descendants of Hendrick were- born in 
the order named: Henry Nacasias, Peter, Abraham, Peter A.. Henry and 
Henry second. 

The present Henry Kij^p is a son of Peter A. Kipp and .Maria 
Stuyvesant, a lineal descendant of (lovernor Stuyvesant. No descendant 
of the first Hendrick has led a more active life or attained to more local 
notoriety than this Henry, who was born August .'^l. isil. In .Inly, 
1841, he married Susan A. Howard, a niece of Enoch .Morgan. She 
became the mother of six children, four of whom are still living. 

Judge Kip was a master of the Cooper's trade but abandoned it to 
open a clothing house in (ireenwich Street, New York. This \enture 
was attended with fair success and from there he removed to Trenton, 
where he established the largest general store in New Jersey. 



412 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

At the age of thirty he received the title of Judge by appoint- 
ment as a lav member of the Mercer county bench. He retired from 
mercantile business in 1846, to take charge of the homstead farm at 
Polifly, which he managed for about forty years. While a resident of 
this town, Mr. Kipp erected two churches and the first school-house for 
the village of Corona. 

The Judge is rich in reminiscences of early days and recalls vividly 
the visit of Lafayette to Hackensack. 

In 1873, Judge Kipp purchased the "Bergen County Herald" at 
Rutherford Park, but after a comparatively brief editorial experience, 
he returned to the farm where his wife died. Mr. Kipp served as chosen 
Freeholder. Justice of the Peace, Town Committeman, Township 
Superintendent of Schools and other local offices. He died in 1898. 

JOHN L. C. GRAVES, 

John L. C. Graves one of the Assemblymen elected in November 
1899, to the State Legislature and who died a few days afterwards, was 
a contractor, who came into Bergen county from Jersey City, where he 
was identified with the Union League Club of Hudson county. 

On coming to this county he soon made friends throughout Lodi 
township, before Hasbrouck Heights became a borough. 

He was elected president of the Harrison and Reed club of Lodi 
township, afterward the Republican club of Hasbrouck Heights, and 
remained its president until lcS98. 

Mr. Graves was a tireless worker. He was identified with the Re- 
publican County Committee for several years, during which he served 
either as chairman or member of every committee incidental to the life 
of a convention, whether state, congressional or county. He served as 
chairman of the Bergen county delegation in the congressional conven- 
tion of 1898. 

He was a volunteer fireman, and had been repeatedly re-elected chief 
of the department of Hasbrouck Heights. He was also a member of 
the Volunteer Fire Department Association of the city of New York, 
and a charter member of Hasbrouck Heights Council of the Royal 
Arcanum, whose orator he was until he declined re-election in 1899. 

He was a ready and forcible talker, and an uncompromising defender 
of what he believed to be right. His aggressiveness, combined with 
straight-forwardness, won for him the respect of his opponents and had 
he lived he would have been found an able representative of our county 
at Trenton. 



CHAPTEK XXVI. 
UNION T( )WNSHIP. 



FOKMATION OF THE TOWNSHIP — <-,ENEKAI. DESCKIPTION — THE KINOS- 

LAN'DS AND OTHEK PROMINENT PERSONS — THE SWAMP EANDS — 

THE PPKCHASE OF WILLIAM SANDFOKD — THE HOME OK 

THE KINGSLANDS — THE SCHUVLEK COPPER MINES — 

BIOORAPHICAL. 

That portion of Bergen county which included what now constitutes 
Union township was originally known as a part of New Barbadoes 
Neck. In the year 1825 a new township was made from New Barbadoes 
township named Lodi, which included the present townships of Lodi 
and Union, in Bergen county, and of Kearney and Harrison townshii)s 
in the county of Hudson. In 1840 Hudson county was formed from the 
county of Bergen, and a new township was made and named Harrison, 
which included Union, Kearney and Harrison, but, because of the long 
distance for the farmers to trayel when attending court or doing other 
business in Hudson county, the township of Union was set off bv an act 
of the Legislature approved February, i853. 

The first town meeting of Union township was held in the school- 
house of Riverside April 6, 1853, the moderator or presiding officer being 
Joseph K. Hazen. The officers elected were as follows: Aaron Hazen, 
Town Clerk; John V. S. Van Winkle, Assessor; Henry H. Yearance, 
Collector of Taxes; Henry Kipp and Cornelius C. Joralemon, F'reehold- 
holders; Joseph K. Hazen, Robert Rutherford, Tunis A. Brown, Joseph 
M. Roy and John I. Vreeland, Town Committee. 

The total amount of taxes raised in Union township for that year 
was Sl.WT.DS. 

Boiling Springs, so called from a powerful and never-failing spring 
of pure cold water, which flowed in the cross road at the northern 
extremity of the township, gave a name to that locality. Here the 
wagon road and the railroad crossed, and here the "Depot," a small 
structure was built. In 1858 a gentleman from New York bought a 
small farm of twenty-five acres near the Boiling Spring and soon after- 
ward increased his purchase to one hundred acres. In iS()2 the first ma]) 
suggestive of streets and avenues was published, and business men from 
the city were induced to settle in the place and build homes. In 18()() 
several men bought a large farm on the Passaic, founded an Associa- 
ti(m and ])rojected a broad avenue, now Park Avenue, in a direct line 
from their proj)erty to the railroad station, and one year from that time 
the name "Boiling Springs" was dropped and the i)lace called Ruther- 
ford Park, abreviated subsequently to that of Rutherford, its present 
coirnomen. 



414 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 



In 1S()8 the Delaware and Lackawanna Railroad was built giving rise 
to Kingsland village and South Rutherford. In the year 1890 the bor- 
ough of Rutherford and Boiling Springs township were formed and in 
1895 the borough of North Arlington was set off leaving the territory 
comprising Union township that which now lies between the two bor- 
oughs just named, with Berry's Creek on the East and the Passaic River 
on the West, for that organization. 

The officers of the town for the year 1898 are : Charles R. Searle, 
Chairman of the township committee; David Machette, James McKenna, 
Thomas Buckley, Assessors; Herman Froehlich, Collector; William L. 
Grant, Clerk. 

The following sketch of Union township was taken from a valuable 
paper prepared for this work by W. H. Castles, of Kingsland. In speak- 
inu- of the early settlement of the town, Mr. Castles says: 

••For over two centuries, since their first settlement the progress of 
improvement and colonization of Union township and North Arlington 
has been far behind that of any of the other nearby environs of New 
York city. 

"The southeastern point of intersection of the boundary lines of 
Hudson and Bergen counties on the north Arlington border is the 
nearest point in Bergen county to the first area of settlement of the 
state itself. 

"Both places are within easy distance, view and sound of the great 
metropolis, their eastern boundaries being less than five miles away, as 
the crow flies. The tall buildings of the city and the statue of liberty 
—in the upper bay— loom up grandly against the eastern horizon on a 
clear day and the boom of the sunset gun at Fort Hamilton is not an 
unusual sound on a quiet day. 

"Faithful search and eager inquiry for historical fact and events 
bearing upon these places, from their first settlement to the present 
time, which might be of interest, has been made with poor satisfaction 
and meagre results. The field is bare and at this time there seems to 
be no documentary evidence or matter among the township or borough 
records, to add anything to their history. Very little can be secured 
from the present resident descendants of those energetic, hardy spirits, 
who settled here and by energy, industry and perseverance developed its 
wilderness into fair, fruitful fields and pastures— a birthright of great 
worth and magnitude to be pointed to with pride by their kindred wh.j 
follow them. 

"Very few of the descendants of the earlier heroes bearing the old 
ancestral name of Kingsland are now to be found within the confines of 
the two places. With but one exception, North Arlington contains the 
only descendants of Isaac Kingsland, who settled here in 16(i8. These 
are' the children of Enoch Kingsland, with Mr. William Kingsland an<l 
his children. The enterprise of the early settlers, transmitted to each 
succeeding generation, has manifested itself in new lines, the male 



lilSTOKV Ol" lilvKCHN COINTY 415 

members of the f.imily seekiii<r the more active political, financial and 
commercial world to be found in the citv. 

•'In time strantifers came to purchase portions of this land and to 
occupy it as homes. In 1868 the partition of the oritfinal lioldint>s was 
practically completed by a g-cneral jniblic auction sale of the fields lyintr 
about the old homestead, made l>v the widow and executors of the last 
owner, (ieneral tieorire Kinsjfsland. 

"Those who invested, have bren dis.ippoinled in the outcome of 
their expectations. 

■' Amonif other thiniifs in the way of "growth, is the lack of railroad 
accommodations at hours to suit those who need transportation to and 
from New York citv. 

"The !i;eo,t>Taphical situation of the two places may have contributed 
somewhat to their i)resent depressed cimdition, lying- as they do between 
the Passaic and Ilackensack rivers, a large portion of the area being 
the low, marshy lands bordering- the two streams. These uninhabited, 
unprt)ductive tracts comprise nearly fifty per cent, of the area of the 
township and boroug-h. Many schemes have been ])roposi'd and several 
attempts made to reclaim the Hackensack Meadows, but no success has 
vet been achieved within the Berg-en county lines. 

"The most elaborate scheme ever attempted was that Ijy Spencer 
B. Driggs, some fifty years ag-o, in which was invested a large amount 
of capital. He built a series of dikes and canals which by the aid of 
windmills was to pump out the water, in the old Dutch fashion at Hol- 
land. He also intended to supj)lement the wind power with steam to 
prevent sulimerg-ence when there was a lack of wind. 

"His first dikes were bored full of holes by muskrats, which abound 
in great numbers on the meadows and he was forced to insert sheets of 
perforated iron in the dikes to save them from the ravages of these 
pests." 

The following is a brief summary of the cotuiection of Mr. Driggs 
with his great enterprise: 

"He first purchased the whole four thousand acres of swani]) land 
in Hudson and Bergen counties from the many owners, among them 
being representatives of the oldest families in Bergen county, such as 
the Kingslands, Kutherfords, Stuyvesants and many others. The land 
cost from two to five dollars per acre. A great deal of trouble and 
expense was incurred in getting deeds correct, some of them having to 
be sent to Europe for signatures, and so varied and complex were the 
legal intricacies of these dociunents that when completed, the instru- 
ment covered a space 100 square feet in area and filled a good sized Ijox. 
"The lawyer, former Judge Lawrence, of New York city, who 
searched and passed upon the titles, received the enormous fee of S10,()()0. 
.Ml real estate men jjreviously had decided that a perfect title was 
unobtainable, but the Judge set all doubts at rest. 

"After this success, Mr. Driggs found a capitalist in the person of 
.\Ir. S. N. Pike, a millionaire, of Cincinnati, Ohio. It is stated upon 



416 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

good authority that within twenty-four hours after his tirst interview, 
Mr. Drig-gs had interested and caused Mr. Pike to comprehend his 
scheme, with the aid'of his patent iron dikes. Within these twenty- four 
hours a contract was drawn and ch)sed and Mr. Pike had deposited 
SIOO.OOO to the credit of Mr. Driggs, and the next week work began on 
the four thousand acres. Jerome J. Collins, who afterwards died with 
the Jeannette expedition of the "New York Herald," and was buried 
with great honor on the recover}- of his body, was employed by Mr. 
Driggs as his chief engineer. Many men were given employment and 
much money was spent. 

"A great deal of annoying- criticism was raised and many adverse 
opinions were circulated as to the result. This did not phase Mr. 
Eriggs, who went on in tlie even tenor of his way undisturbed. His 
dikes were cut, and his men incited to revolt. Impediments caused by 
ignorance and jeahiusy were placed in his way, but after a time favor- 
able results were seen. In the lower section — in Hudson county — the 
cars and engines of the New Jersey Railroad Company, at high tides 
no longer ran with their wheels under water. The land rose gradually 
and after being well drained by a system of cross ditches, ceased to be 
flooded at the highest tides. 

" The iron protected dikes prevented the muskrats and crawfish 
from boring holes in the banks and letting in the river water. Then 
the hunters of these rodents complained that Mr. Brig-gs was depriving 
them of a living, and the contractors tried to force upon the Iron Dike 
Reclamation Co., S. N. Pike, president and S. B. Briggs, manager, the 
rejected plates and suit was brought for their value. 

"Another trouble was caused by the men who not having been paid 
for two weeks were then incited to riot by enemies of the company. 
They quit work and assembled upon the land, threatening to cut the 
dikes, and sent written communications to Mr. Briggs, denouncing him 
and endorsing their papers with a skull and cross-bones. . 

"Without fear Mr. Uriggs w^ent to the scene of the disturbance, 
accompanied by a friend in a carriage, his only protection being a walk- 
ing stick. When he arrived there was at least a thousand excited men 
awaiting him. Jumping out of the vehicle he advanced toward his 
employes shouting loud enough that all could hear: " You wanted me, 
here I am." This bold action changed the sentiment of the mob, who 
cheered, while he explained the cause of the delay and pledged himself 
for the payment of the men on the following Saturday. The rioting 
ceased, although there were many lawless characters scattered among 
his workmen, who were captured by his bravery and daring. 

"Having thus discovered the class of men wath whom he had to 
contend, he deemed it necessary to use caution and protection, and when 
av day came, his paymaster stood upon a small bridge with two clerks 
covering each man with a pistol as he advanced to receive his pay. 

" What land was reclaimed became tillable and fertile and the com- 
pany set off a piece, planted it and raised the tinest of vegetables, even 



HISTORY OK BERCRN COl^NTY 417 

t<>l)acco hcin-i- ij^Tiiwn, as the soil w.-.s very rich. Arrannenu-nts were 
])en(linu; to build a town on the lower (le\eloi)e(l section, when Mr. Pike's 
sudden death put an end to the scheme. 

"So hig-hly did Mr. Pike value his lioldino-s tliat he left them to 
his i^randchildren, and when the Pennsvhania Railroad madi' a lari^'e 
offer for the portion of land which they occupied, it was necessary to 
Ji'ct permission of the court, before a sale could be eft'ected. This sale 
netted the company S17,S, ()()(); f)ther sales jiroduced S2.^,0()il more. 

"Twenty years ag-o Mr. Navarro oi' New York offered S1,0(»0,(1U() 
for the whole tract but his oft'er was refused. Mr. Hrii;-<,'-s obtained from 
the Penns3-lvania Railroad Company, throui^h Mr. Cassatt. a bid of 
S')(lO per acre, which was also refused. More receiulv the prices became 
much hijrher. There are now over three thousand acres of this land 
left of the four thousand acres oriijinally bought l)y Mr. Urij;-<i;'s for 
SM),000. S.^()(),()00 has been realized by the company, SI, 0(10, 000 was 
refused, and it holds what will be one of the most valuable lartje tracts 
of land in this section of the country, thanks to Mr. Drigo's' foresight, 
inventive g'enius and untiring' jjerseverence. 

" The benefits derived fnjm the taxes of the improved portions of 
the land, yields a good revenue to the state and to the municipalities in 
which they lie. In the near future it is expected that factories will be 
built and homes be established along the trolley roads, and in the course 
of the next twentv-live years a town will i)robably connect the two cities 
of Jersey City and Newark. 

"Another effort, and the last attempt to reclaim this great area of 
waste land, was made by James R. l);iv, but on a smaller scale. His 
dikes were built of blocks of peat cut from the meadows but they were 
not heavy or substantial enough. The material dried and one spring 
season during a freshet the greater jjart <if his dike tlo.atcd away on 
the tide. 

" The tirst ;ind original owners of the land grant from the Lord 
Pro])rietors, were two Englishmen, William S.mdford ;md Nathaniel 
Kingsland, the latter being a Sergeant Major in the llritish Army, 
stationed at Christ Church Parish in the Island of liarbadoes." 

The record of their grant is described in New Jersey under the 
l)roprictors as follows : 

"On July 4th 16f)S, all tlu' meaiK>ws and ui)l;ind lying south of a 
line drawn from the Hackensack to the Passaic Rivers, seven niiUs north 
of their intersection and C()ini)rising 5.i().S acres of upland and 10,0ii() 
acres of meadow, were granted to Captain William Sandford for twenty 
l)ounds sterling per annum, in lieu of the liaU penny per acre, per 
annum, the standard price of the agreement." 

To complete the title there remainded the Indian title. The Indi- 
ans hereabouts at this time, we are informed, were very sensiti\e regard- 
ing the title to their lands and actively resented its being taken from 
them by the whites without their consent or any consideration or value 
being given for it. 



418 HISTOKV OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

The Indians were in considerable numbers about the settlement then, 
but thev were stronsf in their alliances with neig'hboringf tribes by whose 
aid thev could easily annoy the outlying' plantations, and previous to 
this time, there had been much friction between them and the Dutch 
settlers. 

'riie Dutch, who had settled the outlying country, about New York 
and New Jersey, tirst feared English interference. They supplied the 
natives with guns and atiimunition and taught them their use, in order 
that they might use the natives to help them dispossess the English 
when the opportunity came. 

In order to allay all fears of unjust treatment in the savage mind, 
regarding their property rights, the Lords Proprietors made provision 
for them in their concessions by instructing the Governor and Council to 
purchase the Indian titles to all lands and look for reimbursement to the 
settlers, as the latter made their purchases. In compliance with these 
instructions the Governor decreed that the new comers were either to 
purchase from the Indians themselves, or if the land had been previously 
purchased bv the Proprietors, thev, the new comers, were to pay their 
]>roportion. 

It is related that this system of securing equity to the natives had 
the desired effect and they parted with their lands with satisfaction, 
becoming good neigh tiors, no instance being recorded showing any fric- 
tion with them in the early davs of the New Jersey settlements. 

William Sanford purchased the Indian title to the lands aforemen- 
tioned, on the 20th day of July, 1668, and sixteen days after he received 
the land grant from the proprietors, giving for it the following commo- 
dities: 

170 fathom l)lack wampum, 2(M) fathom white wampum, l'» match 
coats, supjiosed to be watch coats, 16 guns, (>U double hands powder, 10 
pairs breeches, (i7 bars lead, 1 anker of brandy, 3 half fat beer, 11 
blankets, 30 axes, 20 hoes, and 2 cooks of dozens. 

The later item seems to have been intended as two coats of Duffils, 
a cloth of that age, suitable for warm climates. It is claimed that 
Nathaniel Kingsland was the principal in this grant, and received con- 
sideration for it from the crown, as services, although there is no record 
to establish this claim. Captain Sanford is said to have made the pur- 
chase in Kingsland's interest. Kingsland gave the new tract the name 
of New Barbadoes which was afterward localized to New Barbadoes 
Neck, which name it retained until recently. Previous to its settlement 
that location bore the Indian name of " Mighgecticook." 

There is mention of a patent having been issued for this grant by 
the proprieti>rs on March, 11.71, to William Sandford in trust for 
Nathaniel Kingsland, forever, for the sum of 200 pounds sterling. This 
])atent, it is supposed, confirmed possession to the grantees, they having 
probably within the time specified in the first document made the 
required settlement and improved and fulfilled the requirements of the 
concessions. 



HISTOKV OK BKU(;):N COl'N'TY 4l'l 

The liind adjoiniuir the Sandftird and K lilies land tract on tlio iiortli 
and extondinff six miles into tho coiintrv, or from Rutherford ' tlK-n 
SandftJrd's Spring's), to Ilackensack was granted, bv the Lords Pro- 
prietors to Captain John Berry and associates, about a sear after Sand- 
ford's grant was issued. 

A conveyance was made on the first of Juni', liiTl. I)V Nathaniel 
Kingsland and Mary his wife, to William Sandford. of cme-tliird of their 
])atcnt. the consideration Ijeing 2(10 jxiunds sterling-, and this transfer 
was confirmed by the (Governor and Council on the 21st day of March. 
1()7,^. This it would seem, should conlirm the statement that Sandford 
acted in the interest of Kingsland throughout. 

This latter conveyance appears to have been the linal division of the 
property between Sandford and Kingsland, the line of separation, as 
near as one can discover being the northerly boundary of the Van Km- 
l)urgh estate, in Kearney township, Hudson county, which seems to 
have been the first portion deeded away by the Sandft)rds. 

The first actual settlers of New Barbadoes were Edwar.l Hall. 
Nathaniel Wheeler and John Bauldwin. who were annmg the first settlers 
of Newark, (settled in 1()()() by colonists from Connecticut, i These did 
not remain long, however, being probably warned by Captain Sandford, 
that he and Kingsland had a prior claim to the land. 

No record exists to show that Nathaniel Kingsland ever left Bar- 
badoes to settle his share of the grant. Isaac Kingsland, supposed to 
be a nephew, was the lirst of the f.amily to settle here in l()f>S. for at 
that date we find an account of the New Colony in New Jersey writti-n 
bv Secretary Nichols of New York, in which he stales that on the 
north of Milford, or Newark River, is a larger tract of land belonging 
to Kingsland and Sandford and that higher up the river another tract 
exists owned by Captain Berry, wlio divided his tract into plantations 
which were soon settled. 

It is recorded that when Captain Sandford was tendered a coun- 
cillor appointment, by Philip Cartaret. the first (losornor of New 
Jersey, in \<>(>'K he was unwilling to accejjt it. or any ollicc in the com- 
mcmwealth. 

"Some interest as well as mvsterv. is thrown around this name 
bv the records, for it does not appear from whence he came. Inil he was 
l)robablv an Englishman, from the West Indies. 

"His title, 'Captain (»f .Militia,' was conferred ui)on him while resid- 
ing in Newark, in i(>7.^. His scruples respecting his contempt for 
office seems to have been overcome, for he subsequently served in the 
Councils of Ueputy Governors Rudyard and Lawrie. 

"On April 24, 1(>77, Sandford transferred to Mrs. Sarah Whartman. 
in trust for his eldest daughter, Nedemiah and the children born of the 
said Sarah Whartman, viz.: " Cather, Peregrine. William and (xrace, one 
equal third ])art of all his i)roi)erty between the I'assaic and Ilacken- 
sack Rivers, with one-third (d" the stock, household stulTs. etc., jjrovided 
it were im])ro\ed for her inaintenence and the education .d' the said chil- 



420 HISTOKY OF BEKGEX COUNTY 

dren, the principal not beintr disposed of, in any way, ^yithout his 
consent." 

Whether he left the nei'i'hborhood after this, is unkjiown, but the 
next year on Au<fust Idth, Mrs. Wliartman relinquished all she had 
received, re-transferring- it to Sanford having- of her own obstinate will 
violated the condition of the conveyance by removing the stock. The 
historian then states that these proceedings assume rather a strange 
aspect when considered with reference to the following facts : 

"Major William Sanford died in 1862, letters of administration of 
his estate being granted in September 16()*t. His will was dated Janu- 
ary .>d, 1()'»0, in which he acknowledged Sarah Whartmanto be his lawful 
Nvife. Some considerable reasons having caused them t(j conceal their 
mrriaage, a certificate of marriage was annexed, signed by Richard 
Vernon, as having occurred on board the Pink Susannah, in the river of 
Swimam, on the 27th day of March, 1()67. 

"In his will he desired that his body be buried, if it may be, in his 
own plantation, without pomp or expensive ceremonies, and he implored 
hishonorcd friends. Colonel Andrew Hamilton, Mr. James Emott, Gabriel 
Meudillc and William Nichols, of New York, to assist, and favor the 
concerns of a poor ignorant widow and five innocent children (another 
daughter, Elizabeth, having been added to those already named) ' with 
their best advice and counsel, to preserve them from those vultures and 
harpies, which prey upon the carcasses of widows, and fatten on the 
blood of orphans.'" 

Further mention is made of his daughters Nedemiah, who married 
Richard Berry, and Catharine, who married Doctor Van Emburgh, and 
who left numerous descendants, and of Elizabeth, who became the wife 
of Captain James Davies. There seems to be no doubt that Major Wil- 
liam Sandford, who was one of the council under Governors Hamilton 
and Lord Cornbury, was his son. He was very prominent, and when but 
twenty-eight years of age presided as Chief Justice over the Court of 
Sessions at Elizabethtown, March 12th, 170(1, with four associate Jus- 
tices, who were said to be all men of standing in their respective com- 
munities 

The desire of the first Sandford to be buried on his plantation, with- 
out pomp or expensive ceremony, seems to have been carried out, al- 
though nothing definite exists relating thereto, except the existence of 
a very old landmark, a burial plot in which is interred some of the early 
Sandfords. Its location is in Kearney township, Hudson county, about 
two miles south of the North Arlington line, just off vSchuyler Avenue, 
a few yards north of the old Kenton homestead. In this same yard 
another quite large stone, broken straight across its middle, lying face 
upward, bearing the record that •' Major William Sandford died March 
2d, 17.^2-33, aged 60 years." 

This broken and neglected relic marks a point very near to the 
burial place of the colonial Major, Judge and Councillor of the proprie- 
tors of the Jerseys, son of the first William Sandford, the first owner 



HisTouN OK bi:k(;kn C(jrN"Tv 421 

of one of the richest land lirants of the United States at the present <lav. 

THK lUmiv Ol- TH1-; KIN<;SI.AXI)S. 

The old Manor House, formerly the home of the Kin<^sland family 
still stands as a memento of "ye olden time" in the \ illatfe of Kini^sland. 
Around this house cluster the memories of much Ih.il is historically 
associated with this part of Beri^en counlv, and in remembrance of liis 
forefathers the property is retained in the possession of Mr. Edmund W. 
King'sland, president of the Provident Saving's Institution, of Jersey 
City, N. J. Besides this old land-mark there remains also the olil mill 
])ond. and the antiquated graves, both reminders of colonial days. The 
old wheel and the miller's house were both but recently torn down by 
the railroad people, but the old homestead with its wide door and iireat 
knocker, though bereft of its pr()jecting, wooden columned jiorch, 
which for many years shielded it from sun and storm, still stands under 
its old gambrel roof with an a])pearance as imposing as any domicile 
erected to-day. 

This old house was once the object of attack by the British in Revo- 
lutionary times. Edmund W. Kingsland then the owner, was dragged 
from his home and after suffering injury, insult and ignominy was incar- 
cerated in the old sugar house prison in New York city and there con- 
fmed for a longtime. The silver and household vahial)les were saved by 
the ingenuity of the inmates of the house, wlio were not disturbed by 
the soldiery. 

The late Cliief Justice Joseph Hornblower, who died in .Newark in 
lS(i4, was born in this house. His father was Josiah IIorni)lower. a 
young man who came from FjUgland in 175.^, to superintend the erection 
of a steam engine brought from that country to Union township to 
work the copi)cr mines then oi)erated by Colonel John Schuyler. Mr. 
Hornblower married Miss Kingsland by whom he became the father of 
Joseph, afterward the Chief Justice, he being the youngest member (d' 
of his family oi twelve children. 

In l.S()K, the .Morris and ICssex Division of the D. I^. and \V. K. R. 
Company comj)leted its railroad through this place, and shortly .after- 
wards the railroad shops were re-erected for the repair and renew.il 
of its worn out and defective locomoti\is. 

In April 1M75, the shop e([ui])nienls of tools and machinery were 
taken from the other shops at Iloboken and elsewhere on the road and 
removed to this point, wJiere about three hundred and fifty hands find 
steady employment. 

Mr. W. H. Lewis, Master Mechanic of this division, has been in 
charge of these shops since i87(). In 1.S.S2, the macliine shop or main 
building was destroyed by fire, but it was immediately rebuilt. The 
depot station ;it this point was formerly a dwelling house. 'I'he rail- 
road company has another statittn at Lyndlnirst, about oiu- mile from 
the station at Kingsland. 



422 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

THE SCHUYLKK COPPKN MINES. 

The first business venture in this part of the country was the cop- 
per-mining- industry. These mines are located in the borough of North 
Arlington and were the property of the Schuyler family until a fe^v 
years ago, %Yhen they were purchased by Mr. George Bayless. 

About the Year 170(1, Arent SchuYler, son of the celebrated Philip 
Pieterson SchuYler who came from Holland in 1650, bought the tract of 
land upon which these mines are situated, from William Kingsland. A 
few Years later a negro slave, while plowing a field found a stone which 
from its peculiar hardness excited his curiosity-. He carried the stone 
to his master, who finding in it indications of copper ore, sent it to 
England for examination. This resulted, eventually, in the opening of 
the mines. Owing to the find the negro was given his freedom, with a 
request that he make three wishes, which if possible were to be granted. 
His first wish was that he might live with his master as long as he 
lived and to have all the tobacco he could smoke. His second wish was 
for a dressing gown with big brass buttons ''just like massa's." When 
urged to ask something valuable as a third wish, he thought a moment 
and scratching his wooly head said, "I guess I'll hab a little more 
'baccy." The mines were not made profitable until about 1753, when 
Colonel John Schuyler, son of Arent, coming into possession, sent to 
England for a steam engine, such as were being used in the Cornwell 
mines. These engines were built by Joseph Hornblower & Sons, manu- 
facturers. At the request of Mr. Schuyler that an experienced engineer 
be sent to place the engine in successful operation, for that purpose 
came young Josiah Hornblower, afterwards the father of Chief Justice 
Josiah Hornblower. The engines referred to were known as the New- 
comer & Cornish engines. This one brought over and planned at great 
cost was burned in 1772. In 1792, work was resumed and carried on for 
several years, but finally ceased. The eastern face of the old mine has 
been operated for some years as a stone quarry- In September, 1899, a 
SYndicate of Boston copper capitalists commenced operations looking to 
the deYeU)pment of the mines, as a first step, pumping out the Victoria 
shaft on the west side of Schuyler Avenue. 

Colonel John Schuyler was a progressive man and probably it was 
he who extended the Belleville turnpike from the Passaic river at Belle- 
ville, to the Hackensack river at Dow's ferry. This road is supposed to 
have been finished and the ferry established about the year 1755. Wil- 
liam Uow was given charge of the ferry, the site of which was at a 
point a little north of the present bridge of the northern railroad of New 
Jersey. To this ferry and over this road, it is presumed Schuyler carted 
his ore and afterwards loaded it into vessels which conveyed it to Eng- 
land, the vessels clearing from New York city- The late openings in 
these mines disclose veins of the finest ore, while the stone quarried for 
building purposes is said to contain about three per cent, of ore. Lack 
of space forbids further description of this interesting locality and its 
earlY surroundings. 



HISTOKV Ol" BKKf.HN COUXTY 42,^ 

LOUIS KOCH. 

The paternal ancestors of Louis were machinists and dealt in iron, 
steel and brass, in Saarlouis, their French home. The first practical 
coffee mills are said to have been made by them and conveyed to Paris, 
in big' wagons. The father of Louis was Peter, the father of Peter 
had seven sons. One of these was Michael a professor of languages in 
Zweibruchen, Bavaria, while his son Victor, was a Colonel in the 
Bavarian array and another son, August, was Court Physician. Mr. 
Koch's father was born in 18O1, and died in Metz, Germany, in 18'J7, 
aged ninetv-six years. John Koch, a brother of Louis, with six other 
brothers gave New York the first successful Symphony Concert in Cen- 
tral Park Garden, wnth Theodore Thomas. John afterward built the 
Lexington Opera House, and lost it in the great panic which came upon 
us in the seventies. 

On the maternal side Mr. Koch's grandparents were John and Anna 
Raiser. John Raiser was of an old French family and died at the age of 
sixty-three, being the last of the name. He had seventeen daughters, 
and one son, who died at nineteen years of age. Three of these daugh- 
ters married three of the Koch brothers. John Raiser was a captain of 
Artillery under Napoleon 1, until his surrender in 1815. Peter Koch, 
the father of Louis, invented the breech-loading cannon, sending the 
pattern and specifications to Napoleon HI in 1854, who afterward, it is 
said, claimed the invention for himself. 

Louis Koch was born in Saarlouis, Germany, March 14, 1837, and 
was educated in the public schools of his native place. His mother 
who had ten boys and six girls, desired that Louis should enter the 
priesthood, but after her death which occured in 1851, he left school and 
went to Nancy, where he learned the trade of confectioner. In 1854 he 
came to America, the first of the family to come to this country. The 
following three years he was employed by a Mr. Schiller a confectioner 
of Ilonesdale, Pennsylvania. In 1857, he with his brother John started 
in business in Scranton, in the hotel, restaurant and confectionary trade, 
at the same time oj)ening places in Easton, Pennsylvania and in Phila- 
delphia. 

August lO, 18(,4, Mr. Koch was married to Miss Amelia Weber of 
Scranton, in the Masonic Hall, at which ceremony there were present 
over two hundred of Scranton's best families. Mr. Koch was a private 
in the Fifth Pennsylvania Militia during the first invasion of the state 
by the rebels. He was a member of the Town Committee of Union 
township from 1872 to 187'>, President of the Kingsland and Sawmill 
Creek Drainage Company, and President of the Board of Education of 
Union township. He became a member of the I. O. O. !•'. in 1858, and 
jnined the Free Masons in 185'J and the Knigllt^ Templar in 18t>2, 
liecoming a .^2d degree Mason in 1887, in Scranton. 

Mr. Koch has four children, Louis, Albert, Frank and .\nna Ida. 
Louis and Frank both served in the late Spanish war as members of 
Company L, Second Regiment, New Jersey Volunteers, Louis a sergeant 




l.nriS KOCII. 



HISTOKY OK BlvKClKN CHJINTY 42.-^ 

whili' l'"ratik was a torjiDral. Anna Ida was lately jiTaduatt-d t'nmi the 
Metropolitan College of Music. She has a dramatie soprano voice, and 
is preparini,'- for a professional career. 

WII.I.IAM II. CASTl.KS. 

William H. Castles, who is a native of New Jersey, was born in 
Newark about fifty years ago. His education was received in that city 
in the public and high schools. He afterwards took a course of mathe- 
matical training from Bernard Kearney, one of the ablest mathemati- 
cians of his day. Mr. Castles' first business experience was in the 
grocery trade, his father placing him in charge of a store when he was 
but sixteen years of age. The business not being congenial to his taste 
he entered the employ of the (iould Machine Works Company at New- 
ark, as an apprentice, and by close attention to business and hard study, 
he was soon able to begin work as a journeyman machinist. In 18f)'t 
Mr. Castles was emplo3'ed as such in the shops of the Delaware, Lacka- 
wanna & W'estern Railroad Company, at Hoboken, where he was sub- 
sequently promoted to the place of time-keeper. His energetic business 
ability was soon noticed and appreciated by President Sloan who 
appointed him in 1873 chief clerk of the Car and Machinery department 
— which comprise all the locomotive and car repair shops of the Dela- 
ware. Lackawanna and Western, as well as the Sussex Railroad, in New 
Jersey. This position he had held for more than a quarter of a 
century, when in April 1899, owing to a change of management, he 
was promoted to the position of manager of all the company's holdings 
of real-estate in Union township. 

Mr. Castles is of Scoth-Irish ancestry of Presbyterian stock. He is 
a member of the Scotch-Irish Society, which has had Dr. John Hall as 
a member and also Robert Bonner, with other eminent men of the 
country. He is also a member of Northern Lodge, No. 25 K. & A. M. 
of Newark and <>f Kingsland Council, J. (). U. A. M., :ind of other 
societies. 

Public spirited and wide awake he has served in many cajjacities in 
society organizations, among others, was president of the Kureka 
Boat Club during the Centennial year. He has served one term as 
collector for Union township. While doing some real estate business, 
he has also acted in the capacity of agent for the (ierman-American 
Insurance Companv for over twenty years. He is a Commissioner of 
Deeds, Notary Public and a Pension Attorney. 

Mr. Castles purchased some years ago, the r.ither picturesi|iie old 
(ieorge Kingsland homestead at Kingsland where he now resides. Four 
acres of ground surround the house, and some fine old trees adorn the 
sloping lawn. A fine spring supplies water. 

Mr. Castles is a highly esteemed citizen. 

JOHN' U. MII.I.AIV. 

Robert Millar, the father of Mr. John K. Millar, of North Arling- 
ton, was a successful scientific gardener in Scotland, the n,iti\, l;inil of 




WILLIAM H. CASTLES 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 427 

the Millar family. For "generations, ij-ardeninf;- on scientific principles, 
had been the chief industry of the Millars. In i.S(.7, Mitchell Millar, 
a brother of Robert, died, leaving an estate valued at S50,()0(), represent- 
ing the earnings of forty years, on twenty-six acres of land, which had 
cost him yearly about fifty dollars an acre for rent. 

Upon reaching manhood, John R. Millar became manager of a farm 
known as " Melvin Hall," in Midlothian, in the interest of Margaret 
(low, heir to this estate. Miss Gow was the eldest of six daughters, 
and subsequently became the wife of her manager. 

They were married in March, 1872, coming to America and settling 
<m land owned by her father in Kingsland. N. J. In 1875 they bought 
land, built a house and entered upon the business of making a farm out 
of the forest. It looked a herculean task, but trees and tanglewood 
were in due time cleared away, and we now see a fine garden, bringing 
in a handsome revenue. Of Mr. and Mrs. Millar's four children, three 
sons and one daughter, John Gow Millar, the eldest son, is a prominent 
man in the borough, being a member of the school board, and holding 
several oftices in the government. Robert (i. Millar inherited the tastes 
of his ancestry in the line of gardening, while also being an expert 
bookkeeper. His death occurred on December 1, 18'»8, at twenty-three 
vears of age. His father survived him but a few days, dying on the 
isth of the same month. Mr. Millar was born near Edinburg, Scot- 
land, in 1S40. 

JIvSSIC V. JOKAI.KMON". 

The .loralenion family came to this country in a very early day. 
John and Cornelius Joralenum, with the Westervelts and the Browns 
represented the shipbuilding craft, in the early history of the town of 
Union. Cornelius Joralemon who died during the first years of the civil 
war built many vessels, mostly two masted and of about thirty or forty 
tons burden. 

The Joralemon homestead was on tln' Passaic Ri\er, wliert- John 
Post now resides, their shipyards also being in that vicinity. Boats in 
those days plying between Acquackanonk and New York were the com- 
mon mode of convevance for excursions or other i)leasure jiarties between 
these two places. 

Peter Joralemon, who has been bridge tender for the last twenty 
years at the Lyndhurst bridge, studied the art of shipbuilding and 
became a skilled draughtsman, modeler and designer. During his time, 
larger vessels were constructed, some schooners of four hundred tons 
burden and over, having been built by him and others for several lines 
doing business between New York and Charleston, Savannah and 
other southern seaports. 

The last vessel he built was the ••Westley Stone." still running into 
New York harbor. 

He married Miss Margaret Hrown. daughter of .Abraham Brown, 
and is the father of Jesse P. and Warren H. Joralemon, the well known 
coal men of Rutherford. 



428 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

Jesse p. Joralemon, was also engaged for a time in boat building-. 
He owned a floating dock, a few years since in Hoboken, but he drifted 
from that to house building and finally placed his capital in the business 
of trucking, already started by his brother. The large storage house in 
Lyndhurst was built by Jesse P. in 1890, and the present dock about the 
same time. 

Twelve or fifteen teams are constantly in use, and a large business 
is done, not only in coal and ice, but in the moving business. 



CHAPTER XXVII. 

ruthp:rf()rd boroughs. 

VILLA SITES — THE MANOK HOUSE — KUTHEKKOKD PAKK LAND COMPANIES 
— THE BOKOl'GH — SCHOOLS — NEWSPAPERS — SOCIETIES, ASSOCIA- 
TIONS, CLUBS AND LODGES — BOARD OF TRADE — BANKS — 
COMPANY L — CHURCHES — EAST RUTHERFORD — ORGAN- 
IZATION OF THE BOROUGH — BOROUGH OFFICERS 
— BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 

In "Thing-s Old and New," published in 18'i8, we find a letter writ- 
ten by Mr. Floyd W. Tompkins, the "Pioneer" of the village of Ruther- 
ford, in which he tells us that on April 2d. 1858, he removed with his 
family to a little farm of twenty-five acres which he had bought, and 
on which stood a small stone house. Shortly after this he purchased 
seventv-five acres more on what is now Union Avenue, and had it sur- 
veyed and a map made of " Villa sites at Boiling- Springs, New Jersey." 
This was the beginning of the village, although a station had been 
established here ever since 1832, when the New York and Paterson Rail- 
road was finished. When locomotive power was adopted the never fail- 
ing spring had been utilized by the company as a watering station under 
the name of Boiling Springs. Several gentlemen now bought lots, 
built houses and finally by using some liberality prevailed upon the 
railroad company (now the Erie) to erect a passenger depot and ticket 
office. This depot was a small triangular shaped brick building, with 
a gable roof. It stood on the east side of the railroad at the corner of 
Union Avenue, which was then more a lane than an avenue. At this 
time Charles Ingersoll was station agent. About the year 18(>2, this 
little structure gave place to the one which in time has been displaced 
by the beautiful, new and commodious building completed in 1897. 
Park Avenue was laid out in 18()f) by the commissitmers. to connect the 
lands of the Rutherford Park Association with the depot. 

In 18(>7 an act was passed by the Legislature authorizing the im- 
provement of this street and soon after Ridge Road and Rutherford 
Avenue were laid out and graded, under an act of the Legislature, 
other streets following, through the efforts of land cntn])anies or by 
])ri\Mte individuals. 

During the lifelinu' uf Mr. Rutherford his property was known as 
•'Edgerston Manor." the name of the family seat in Scotland. The 
Manor House stood on the River Road south of what is now Ruther- 
ford .\venue. After the death of Mr. Rutherford the greatir p:irt of 
the estate passed into the hands of Mr. William J. Stewart, who dis- 
posed of it to the Rutherford Park Association. They laid out sinets, 
dividing the land into building lots, converting the Manor Housi> into a 
hotel, which after a ]K'ri<"l of some success and later of failure in 1)usi- 



430 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

ness, was eventual!}- destroyed b}- lire and never rebuilt. Another hotel 
in the early history of the borough, was the "Vreeland House," now 
used by the Salvation Army as "Cherry Tree Home." 

In 1870 the name "Rutherford" was adopted on account of much 
of the land having been a part of the farm of John Rutherford, while 
"Park" was attached no doubt as a sort of attraction. This name 
continued until about 1875, when, after much discussion, a request was 
forwarded to the Postmaster. General to drop "Park" from the name. 
This request was granted, the Erie company soon after changing to the 
same name. 

In 1882 controlling interest of the Rutherford Heights Association 
passed into new hands, when it was decided to begin building houses iur 
sale on easy terms. Three cottages were built on Passaic and Donald- 
son Avenues, which were rented, because of failure to find purchasers. 
However, under the able management of Mr. A. G. Bell, the treasurer of 
the Association, several houses were built and disposed of on liberal 
terms. This giving an impetus to business, many people availed them- 
selves of the opportunity to secure a home, and soon more than two hun- 
dred houses had been disposed of on "easy terms." Other land companies 
were now organized, "Mount Rutherford Land Company" claiming 
precedence in the matter of organization. The Home Land Company, 
Rutherford Heights Association, Park Land Company, The Ruthei- 
ford Park Association, West Carlstadt Land Verein, and the 
East Rutherford Land Association. All these have aided in building 
up the borough. In the little "Souvenir" from which we draw largely 
in this article, we lind this statement : "Looking westward from the 
depot two modest looking hills completely shut out a view of the lands 
l^-ing beyond. The more southerly one is now dignified by the name of 
Mount Rutherford, the other, a smaller one, arose in a depressed, cone- 
like shape directly back of the depot. Between these sister hills was a 
deep ravine affording a complete drainage for a large section of back 
land. Upon laying out and grading the lands around the depot by the 
Mt. Rutherford Company the smaller hill was cut down to fill up this 
ravine, where it was crossed by the Orient Way, and also by the Home 
Land Company, in forming the plateau through which runs Ames 
Avenue. A filling at Orient Way, gave opportunity for the forming of 
a picturesque, lake-like pond, called 'Glen Waters,' fed by living springs, 
and fringed on its southern side by a cluster of fine elms. In its waters 
was baptized the first convert in the Baptist church of Rutherford. This 
lake was given to the town by the Mt. Rutherford Company, but was 
subsequently filled up from fear of malaria." 

The Rutherford Improvement Association was organized in 18S1. 
This organization was the outcome of a meeting called by a few leading 
citizens in order to bring before the people a plan by which they might 
secure a local government. Major Richard Allison was its first presi- 
dent. On September 5, a meeting was called over which Mr. David B. 
Ivison presided, when it was decided to call a meeting and take a vote 



HISTORY OK BERGEN COUNTY 431 



on the question of l)oroui^-li ii-overnment. This ok'ction was hekl on the 
twentieth of the same month, when the question was (kxi(K'(l and the 
certificate filed the followiuL;' day. The first election for horou^-li 
officers was held October 4, followini»-. when Alfred Oakley was elected 
Mayor. The final and full separation from the township g-overnment, 
however, took place, when on March 10, 1S'»(), a law was enacted by the 
le<ifislature, by which the borough became a distinct municipality, the 
officers consisting of a mayor elected annually, with executive responsi- 
bility and power to veto, with six councilnien serving three years each, 
who with the mayor constitute a full local legislative power, the council 
having the power by a two-thirds vote to pass measures over the veto of 
the mayor. In addition to these an assessor and collector of taxes serv- 
ing three years, four justices of the peace, who are elected for five years, 
and also three commissioners of appeal, having power to adjust the 
assessment laid by the assessor. As many marshals may be appointed 
as the Mayor and Council deem necessary. 

Prior to this an Electric Light plant had been placed and put in 
operation in 189'*. In 1891, water was introduced by the Hackensack 
water system, which supplied pure water taken from the river at New 
Mil ford, above the dams at the lowest point where fresh water can be 
obtained. The water in the mains as well as in the reservoir, is 
thoroughly aerated, by forcing fresh air into the mains of the reservoir, 
by compressors built for that purpose and located at New Milford and 
W'eehawken. Some forty hydrants are distributed throughout the bor- 
ough at convenient localities, about twelve miles of mains being used. 

A system of sanitary sewers was also voted for, in which is embodied 
all the advantages of modern science, as applied by Colonel d. E. War- 
ing of Newport, R. I., and other well known engineers. The sewers are 
of the kind known as the "close" system, intended to convey sewage 
only, instead of receiving surface and subsoil drainage in addition to 
household sewage. By this system no foul gases are sujjposed to escape; 
the conduits are small and the joints hermetically sealed, while the 
sewers are flushed twice every day to insure against the accumulation 
of ff)ul gases. 

The borough of Kutherford C(>\ers an area of something less than 
two square miles, with a population of about 5U()(). The business por- 
tion of the borough is mostly near the depot and on Park Avenue. 
Business of various kinds is carried on by which the necessaries of life 
may be supplied. The sale of intoxicating drinks as a beverage has 
never yet been authorized. 

When the railroad was first comi)leted in l.s.>2, and for some time 
afterward, the coaches were drawn by horses, the flriver sitting com- 
fortably on top of the coach. Two small locomotives were subse()uently 
built in Baltimore, which superseded the horses. A pumping station 
was built near where "Just's Hotel" nf)w stands, the water Ijeing drawn 
fri>ni the underground vein of the Boiling Springs. Two l)oys were 



432 HISTOKY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

employed to pump the water into an elevated tank, which supplied 
water for the locomotives. 

What is now East Rutherford was then composed of five or six old- 
fashioned farm houses. 

The Rutherford fire department is regularly orj^anized under the 
control of a Chief and Assistant Chief Engineer. The department com- 
prises four companies, Truck and Bucket Company organized June (>, 
1876; Fire Engine Company No. 2 organized March 24, 1886; and West 
End Fire Engine and Hose Company No. 3 organized July 1890. No. 3 
is equipped with a chemical apparatus furnished for immediate use, and 
not wholly dependent upon water. Hose Company No. 4 was organized 
September 1896. This company is composed of men who are within call 
during the day. They are equipped with a modern style of hose cart to 
be drawn by hand or horses. No. 1 has a truck drawn by horses also. 

Unlike the general run of suburbs, Rutherford has a well kept and 
finely located cemetery, the property of a local corporation. The Hill- 
side Cemetery Company was organized May 20, 1882, under the act 
entitled "An act to authorize the incorporation of rural cemetery 
associations and regulate cemeteries," approved April 9, 1873. The 
cemetery is situated between Rutherford and Kingsland, and is easily 
accessible from Jersey City and Hoboken by either Kingsland or Ruther- 
ford depots. It contains about forty-five acres. 

The present officers of the borough of Rutherford are: Mayor, 
Edward J. Turner; Councilmen, Andrew H. Teeple, President; Joseph N. 
Mileham, Charles L. Crear, Frank P. Newman, David Bosman, Samuel 
T. Davy; Clerk, Joseph W. Burgess; Collector, Edwin C. Abbot; Asses- 
sor, Jacob Rohrbach. 

Pl'BLIC SCHOOLS. 

The Rutherford Public School as it now exists, is practically what 
was Old District No. 40, in the township of Union. In 1870 the resi- 
dents in the vicinity of the Rutherford depot, then Boiling Springs, 
were obliged to patronize the only school in the neighborhood, on the 
Meadow Road. It was a quaint old one-story building said to have 
been built about the year 1850. The school house seated fifty pupils 
and was like many of the old fashioned school houses, seated with 
benches without backs, and with smaller benches for the young children. 
Many who were teachers in this old building are now alive and it is 
amusing to hear them recount their experiences. At that time before a 
teacher was permitted to instruct pupils in the public school he had to 
procure a license from the town superintendent who together with the 
board of school trustees constituted the examining board. Mr. Jacob 
G. Van Riper, late postmaster of Rutherford, was for many years town 
superintendent and was known as one of the most intelligent who held 
the office. The teachers who at various times taught in the Meadow 
Road school house are George Brinkerhoff, J. P. Jones, E. E. Vreeland, 
Mr. Gow, George Parcel and G. R. Alyea. A Mr. Mersereau became 
the first teacher in the Park Avenue school house. After the erecticm 



HISTORY OK ri;kc;i-:n county 



433 



of the Park Avonuu buildiiii^-, ahuut the war 1S71, the old school hiiild- 
iiig' was sold to a man by the name of McClinnis who placed it uixm a 
stone foundation and occupied it as a residence for n'.any years. AIjouI 
the year 1886 Mr. Mcdiiinis look the huildini;- down ])iece by piece and 
moved it tog-ether with the foundation to Newark where it still stands 
in much of its former style. 

The Park Avenue house when erected, was a model of its kind and 
its erection by taxation, raised all in one year, showed a spirit of enter- 
prise and energy that was commendable. This school was first in charge 
of Mr. Mersereau. then came Mr. \V. F. Morrow, who was succeeded bv 



t 












IHHnI 




i 



KCTUKKKOKI) .NO. 



William H. Palmer in 1.S77. In 1.S7S .Mr. Paddock Mersereau 
had the school, and in 1X7"^ Captain Atldison IClv became its principal 
and held the position for seven years. He was succeeded by Mr. T. 
B. Hascall who was principal for eight vears. Tie was succeeded by 
the present ])rincipal, Mr. William C. Ingalls. 

In 1.S76 there was a division of the school district, when a new 
school house was built in East Rutherford for the new district formed 
out of a part of District No. 40 which became known as District No. 40)i. . 
A Miss (iinn was made principal, and Mr. Canfield an old citizen, and 
school teacher throughout this section of Bergen county for many years 
succeeded her. He was succeeded by Mr. G. R. Alyea, who was a 
few years since succeeded bv Mr. Wilcox, the present County Sujjerin- 
tendent of Passaic Countv. 



434 HISTOKY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

The residents nf Rutherford have been noted for their liberality in 
the matter of public schools and have expected as a result of their 
expenditures, the best schools possible. Rutherford sustained the 
reputation of being second in the state of New Jersey in the cost of 
education per capita, last year. Within a few years the number of 
pupils attending school having become too large to be accommodated 
longer in the Park Avenue house, buildings were erected on Sylvan 
Street and Union Avenue and at present the Board of Education have 
an annex building on Park Avenue. The average number of children 
attending all the Public Schools during the last year is not far from 
six hundred. 

CHURCHES OF KUTHEKFOKD. 
BY EDWIN BULKLEY. 

For several years prior to 1862 a Union Sunday School had been 
maintained in what was then known as the "Boiling Springs Neighbor- 
hood," comprising the territory of the present Borough of Rutherford, 
and that part of the township up to the boundaries of Carlstadt. This 
"Neighborhood" was regarded as connected with and under the care of 
the Reformed Dutch Church, in Passaic, with which many of the farmers 
and other residents here were identified. The Union Sunday School 
was not, however, an outgrowth of that church, but owed its existence 
to persons of the immediate vicinity. They united to secure a building 
and meeting place for purposes of public welfare, the most lasting and 
beneficial of which proved to be this Sunday School. The building was 
erected on high ground, facing the railroad. It still remains, trans- 
ferred to the opposite side of Ames Avenue, as a part of Union Hall, much 
having been added to it since; its frontage being changed and its 
accessibilit}- increased by taking down the hill on which it stood, and 
lowering it to its present foundation. 

Although occasional preaching was heard in Union Hall, and some 
resorted to neighboring places for church services, it soon became 
apparent that this was insufficient provision for the community. No 
other denomination being prepared to offer this, a Presbyterian organ- 
ization was determined upon, with the concurance of many who felt the 
need of church privileges of which they could more easily avail them- 
selves. 

PRESBVTEKIAN CnUKCH. 

With the fostering care of Rev. Joseph Alden, D.D., L.L.D., who 
became a property owner and resident of " Boiling Springs," — a Church 
was organized by the Presbj'tery of Passaic — afterward merged into the 
present Presbytery of Jersey City, July 26, 1863, with an original mem- 
bership of fifteen. Dr. Alden continued as its stated supply for nearly 
two years, or until the Spring of 1865. This distinguished man rend- 
ered good service to it by his sound teaching and counsel. He had 
(Kcupied eminent positions in colleges and other of the higher institu- 
tions of learninuf, and was the author or editor of several useful books. 



HISTOKY Ol- BEKOEN COUNTY 435 



The Kov. (loorsie L. Smith was the first pastor, from October 25, 
1S()5, to April 1*J, 1.S71. He was succeeded by Rev. Herman C. KiirtTS, 
(D. D.,) from November 12, 1871, to March 2(>. 1S7(.. Rev. Dana M. 
Walcott was invited to the pastorate May 25, lS7f>, but was never 
installed in it. His laliors were discontinued June 15, 1S7S. Rev. 
Edwin A. Bulkley, D. D., was called to be pastor September 1.^, 1.S7.S. 
and fulfilled the duties of his office until March 27, 18")8, when on 
account of infirm health he asked to be released from them. Retirin<jf 
from active service he was unanimously invited bv the conirre<.^ati().i to 
be "Pastor Emeritus," with an annual allowance. 

He commemorated October 17, l!S'>7, the fiftieth anniversarv of his 
ordination to the ministry, October 11, 1847, when he was but little over 
twenty-one years of age. Since that time he had been nearly continu- 
ously in the active pastorate. During the time of his service in Ruther- 
ford 697 had been added to the membership, leaving it at 5()(1, and 
embracing 716 in its Sabbath schools. 

After the use of Union Hall as a place of worship for several years, 
the erection of a proper church building, at the intersection of Park 
Avenue and Chestnut Street, was undertaken in 18()'>, and on the 25th 
of December in that year the completed edifice was dedicated to the 
service of God, — about S12,0()() having been expended. Four years later 
important improvements were made at a cost of ?670(), and subsequently 
much was done for the good condition and adornment of the church. 
But the growth of Rutherford caused it to be insufficient, and the build- 
ing of a new edifice upon a new site was begun in 18<S8. The corner- 
stone was laid May 9, 1889, and the dedication of the finished work took 
place March 27, 1890. It stands upon a triangle of nearly an acre in 
extent, Park and Ridge Avenues intersecting in front, and Passaic 
Avenue crossing at the rear. Its style is the rural English (Jothic, with 
low side walls and high gables of brown Belleville stone, laid in rock- 
faced ashlar. The interior is of corresponding finish, the cost of the 
site, edifice, and furnishing being al)out S75,0tW). 

In 1868 the first manse, or parsonage, was built on C'hestmit street. 
Upon the sale of this, the one on Ridge Avenue was erected, and con- 
tinued to be occupied by the pastors until the resignation of Dr. Bulkley. 

In organic connection with the Rutherford Presbyterian Church, 
there are three chapels, Kingsland, Lyndhurst and Emmanuel, at dis- 
tances of about a mile from the Mother Church, all having sufficient 
and well-appointed houses of worshi]), and growing Sabbath schools. 
Services arc regularly maintained by ])astor's assistants. 

KIMSCOI'.M. ClUKCII. 

(Irace > Protestant Episco])al i Church was orgimixed March 4. 18(.9. 
in the Rutherford Park Hotel. 

The building now called the "Lyndhurst Chapel," and formerly tlu' 
"Academy," was erected in the same year by the "Rutherford Park 
School and Hall Association." The lower rooms were used for a private 



436 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

school, and the upper room was leased for the church services. Rev. 
W. H. Lord was chosen first rector May 12, 18(>'», and remained with 
the parish until July 1871. At that time the church's finances had 
become so embarrassed, and the population so much changed in the 
vicinity of the "Academy," that it was decided to move to the upper 
part of Union Hall, where the congregation was under charge of Mr. 
N. R. Boss, as a lay reader, for one year. He was succeeded by 
Rev. E. S. W. Pentreath, a deacon at the time, who remained till April 
5, 1874. Rev. R. M. Hayden, deacon, accepted charge in 1874, his min- 
istrations covering a period of about one year. The services were there- 
after mainly conducted by lay-readers, till. the spring of 1878, when 
Rev. N. R. Boss was called as rector, and remained in that office till 
September 25, 1883. The parish was without a rector till February 8, 
1883, when the Rev. F. J. Clayton began his services, continuing till 
his decease December 27, 1894. He was succeeded in May 1895, by the 
present rector. Rev. Henry M. Ladd. 

The corner-stone of the present church edifice was laid October 14, 
1872, on a plot of ground (Passaic Avenue) donated by Mr. F. W. Tomp- 
kins. It was completed at a cost of about $7,000. and opening services 
were held October 7, i873. In i887 the remainder of the mortgage, 
incurred in building the church was paid, and on August 1, i890 the 
corner-stone laid of a new chancel and transepts, which were form- 
ally opened on February 5, 189i. The enlargement was designed by 
W. Halsey Wood, and cost about $12,000. 

A new organ has this year been placed in the church, and the 
interior tastefully decorated — all signs of cheering progress. 

St. Thomas Mission, in the adjoining township of Union, is under 
the care of Grace Church, and is regularly supplied with services and 
Sunday School. 

BAPTIST CHl'KCH. 

The earliest Baptist residents of Rutherford participated in the 
Union Sunday school until the organization of the the First Baptist 
Church, October 1, 1869, with eighteen members. For some time the 
pulpit was occupied on Wednesday evenings by Rev. Franklin Johnson, 
D. D., the pastor of the Passaic Baptist Church. On October 9, 1870, 
the Rev. John A. McKean became the settled pastor, and continued as 
such till July, 1873. He was followed by Rev. A. H. Robinson, Octo- 
ber 10, 1873, who terminated his pastorate November 1, 1874. From 
early in i875 to July 28, i876, the Rev. W. E. Wright served the church. 
In November of the latter year Rev. A. H. Cornell became pastor, remain- 
ing until July, 1878. At the close of his labors the Rev. J. Huggins 
and others acted as temporary supplies, until October 19, i884, when a 
call was extended to the Rev. P. Franklin Jones, who became the last 
pastor of the "First Baptist Church." In September, 1884, in conse- 
quence of a difference of opinion about church order, ten members with- 
drew and formed themselves into the Pilgrim Baptist Church, January 
22, 1885. In February, 1885, the " First" church voted to disband on 



HISTOKY OF BEKGKN COIINTY 437 

account of financial weakness. A new orifanization of the " Kutherford 
Baptist Church" was effected October 2S. 18S7, the Pilgrim Baptist 
Church transferring its pro])erty to this organization. A council recog- 
nized this November 4, 1887, and ordained Rev. J. Hewitt to the minis- 
try and pastorate November 15, 1887. He continued only till Ajtril 28, 
1888, and was succeeded by Rev. J. L. Hastie. Jr.. who began his services 
as Stated Supply May 13, 18S8. and three munths later was settled as 
pastor. He resigned June 16, i8'>(). Rev. W. (uithric Myles was pastor 
about a year and a half, from Noveml)er 2, 18'J0. His successor. Rev. 
E. J. Cooper, served as supply and pastor fur four and a half years. 
The present pastor, Rev. W. W. Case, shortly accepted a call to the 
pastorate, and had his public recognition December 22, 189(). 

A house of worship was erected soon after the organii.atinn of the 
•' First Church" on a site at the corner of Park Avenue and Highland 
Cross, by Mr. R. Shugg, at a cost of about S3()0(t. This Iniilding was 
sold at the time of the disbanding of the church for a sum about cover- 
ing the mortgage upon it. Worship was maintained by the Baptist 
congregations in Union and Masonic Halls until the present church edifice 
on Passaic Avenue was erected during the ministry of Mr. Hastie, at a 
cost of near S6000. 

In the pastorate of Mr. McKean a mission chapel was built at Moon- 
achie, at a cost of SiOOU. The liuilding was fullv paid for, but passed 
into the control of the owner of its site. The field, after some years of 
good and rewarded work, was abandoned by the Baptists, and is now 
occupied by the Presbyterians and Lutherans. 

METHODI.ST CHURCH. 

The Methodist Episcopal Church entered this field with preliminary 
missionary efforts, extending from 18()8 to 1S7(). On December 15th of 
the latter year, an organization was effected of the "Park M. E. Church 
of Rutherford Park," under Rev. S. P. Hammond as Preacher in 
Charge. Services were held in Union Hall until the Society entered a 
new church edifice, June I'J, 1872. This stood in Orchard Street, north 
of the railway. The cf)rner-stonc was laid September 25, 1871, the 
basement was cf)mpleted, and the building formally dedicated Septem- 
ber 15, 1872. After enjoying the use of it for a season, and turning it 
to profitable account, the Church became so discouraged by diminishing 
numbers and financial burdens, that it was disbanded in the Si)ring of 
1878, and the building sold by foreclosure. 

On March 3, 1880, the church organization was revived. .\ site for 
a chapel was given on Ames Avenue, and the dismantled Park Church 
was purchased that its frame and materials might be used in a new 
building, which was dedicated November 20, 1881. 

The first church was served, in the succession, after Mr. Hammond 
(1870-74), by Rev. J. A. Owen (74-70), Rev. E. Clement (7.5-78) and 
Rev. A. A. King (78-7'(i. The present Church by Rev. Messrs. W. H. 
Kussell i'8(l-'84i, Ostrander. Howard i '84-'87 i, Schuch and I'.ower. In 



4.48 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

1888 the Rev. C. M. Auderson comnienced his five years' ministry, dur- 
ing- which the church grew, and a parsonage was erected on Passaic 
Avenue. In IS'»3 the Rev. W. Tumbower was appointed pastor, suc- 
ceeded in 1894 by Rev. W. Day, who was suddenly removed by death 
before the close of his term. The next incumbent was the present 
pastor Rev. Charles L. Mead. During the ministry of Mr. Day, the 
old church building on Ames Avenue was sold, and the congregation 
met in the Union Club Auditorium, and later in Ivison Hall. The erec- 
tion of a new edifice on the site adjoining the parsonage, followed in 
due course, the corner-stone being laid November 4, 1895, and the 
dedication occurring April 12, 1896. A fine organ has since been put in 
place, and general prosperity crowns the church. The parsonage and 
its lot are valued at S75()0. The church and its lot at 822,500. 

CONGKEG.\TION.\L CHURCH. 

Upon the retirement of Rev. D. M. Walcott from the pulpit of the 
Presbyterian church in 1878, some eleven of its membership followed 
him and associated with others, became the Congregaticmal Church of 
Rutherford, July 15, 1878. For a number of years they met in the brick 
building, at the corner of Park Avenue and Franklin Place. The small 
remnant then withdrew to the house of the pastor, in which they c(m- 
tinued to hold services and enjoy his ministrations. 

UNITARIAN CHURCH. 

The first Unitarian service was held in Rutherford at the residence 
of H. G. Bell, October 3, 1891. From that time regular services have 
been continued, the "Unitarian Society of Rutherford, N. J.," being 
incorporated December 22, 1891. On May 2(>, 1892, Rev. George H. 
Badger was called to the pastorate, entering upon his ministry in Ruther- 
ford July 1st. A Sunday school was began immediately. Upon the 
settlement of the pastor the church organization, with a simple non- 
credal covenant, was effected September 13, 1892, under the name of 
•'The Church of Our Father." A small, but tasteful house of worship, 
built on Home Avenue at a cost, with furnishings, of $6800, was 
dedicated December 15, 1892. 

MT. AKAKAT BAPTIST CIU'KCH. 

Thischurch i colored ) was organized July 14, 1,S9(,, and incorporated 
March 12, 1897. It is under the pastoral care of Rev. \V. II. Howerton, 
■•md worshijjs at present in Union Hall. 

NEWSPAPERS. 
THE BERGEN COUNTY HERALD. 

The Bergen County Herald, published by the "Bergen County 
Herald Publishing Company," with one exception is the oldest newspaper 
published in the county of Bergen. Its first issue came out about i871, 
and represented a constituency in the neighborhood of Rutherford and 
Carlstadt. It sixm passed into the hands of a Publishing Company con- 



HISTOKV OF BEKGEN COl'XTY 4.>'» 

sisting of Charles H. Voorhis, Henry Kipp, John Bartholph and Jacob 
P. Westervelt. As early as 1873 the Bergen County Herald was nt^t 
excelled by any newspaper in the county. In fact its only competitor 
was the Hackensack Democrat. It 1875 it was purchased by John Hay- 
wood and the plant moved to a frame building which then stood opposite 
the Rutherford Depot. Mr. Haywood associated with him Mr. James 
N. Bookstaver, an old newspaperman, and together they made character 
and reputation for the Herald. It was well and familiarly known by 
every body as the "Bergen County." Mr. Haywood and Mr. Bookstaver 
conducted the paper as an independent Democratic sheet and from the 
date of their purchase until the present time it has maintained and 
su]iportcd with vigor the principles of the Democratic party. 

On the death of Mr. John Haywood, Mr. James N. Bookstaver c(m- 
tinued the publication of the paper for about a year, when the plant 
being disposed of by the Haywood estate, the title and good will of the 
newspaper was purchased by ex-Coroner Nelson W. Young and Messrs. 
Frederick and Nelson W. Wilson, when a new office was fitted up to 
accommodate the paper. Shortly afterwards the Messrs. Wilson severed 
their connection with the paper, and for many years it was intelligently 
and effectively conducted by Mr. Young. In 18S'J Messrs. Morris and 
Stevens purchased the interest of JNIr. Young. Mr. Morris, having 
other business in New York state, sold out his interest to Mr. Stevens, 
who continued the publication for several years. 

Mr. C. L. Parker succeeded Mr. Stevens, and in 18'>5 Captain Addi- 
son Ely acquired the plant. Under his ownership and influence it has 
secured an extensive circulation, and is regarded as one of the leading 
Democratic weeklies in the state of New Jersey. 

In 1S'»(> the County Democratic Committee after inducing Captain 
Ely to move his plant to Hackensack and they constituted his paper the 
official party organ. Many additions and extensions were then made to 
the plant and the size of the paper increased to an eight page. The 
circulation has rapidly advanced and it is known as an enterprising and 
fearless Democratic journal. 

THK KfTHEKFOKD NEWS. 

The Rutherford News was founded by James N. Bookstaver, Sep- 
tember 1SS5. It was Republican in politics, remaining so while under 
the control of its founders, to June 1888, when it passed into the hands 
of the following gentlemen, taking the name of the " Rutherford News 
Publishing Company:" Carl Dannheim, H. N. Bullington, Andrew H. 
Brinkerhoff, E. N. Edgar. William K. Everdell, Joseph D. Brinkerhoff, 
John J. Dupuy, Carl von Hartz, William H. Smith and Anderson Price. 
This corporation passed under the control of John J. Ketchum, Tom 
Stevens and E. A. Fletcher, who made it a Republican paper until 
Dr. Ketchum had a change of heart and became a Democrat. The 
paper was finally sold to Homer, Farnum & Homer, who were succeeded 
by Homer & Farnum and later by Thomas W. Homer. In June 18*'7 



440 HISTOKV OF BERGEN COUNTY 

the paper was bought by the Rutherford News Publishing- Company 
whose owners and officers are, Carl von Hartz, President; Anderson 
Price, Treasurer; and William E. Sturm, Secretary. 

The Rutherford American was started on June 30, 1892, as a four- 
pag-e, six-column Republican newspaper, to be published every Thursday. 
At the end of si.x months an additional column was added to each page, 
and later the paper was increased to eig^ht pag-es, six columns to a pag-e, 
at which size it now remains. Its office is in the Shafer Building-, 
Rutherford. It is owned and edited by John E. Tyler. 

KOV.\L .VKCANl'M. 

The local Subordinate Council known as Rutherford Council, No. 
122"), was instituted on January 17, IS'JO, with nineteen members. Its 
first Regent was S. N. Hig-bie, the subsequent Regents being: J. L. 
Chapman, W. G. Williams, tl. N. Janes. S. T. Davy, A. A. Clark, J. 
H. Bowne, W. W. Ward, and for the term of 1S'»S, J. A. Jesty. The 
following is the list of the nineteen original members: W. A. Tomp- 
kins, S. N. Higbie, Dr. S. E. Armstrong, J. W. Burgess, A. A. Clark, 
J. L. Chapman, Wm. Fleming, Sr., J. C. Hastie, E. H. A. Habbert, A. 
O. Jackson, G. N. Janes, F. H. Miller, E. R. S. Saunders, L. T. Savage, 
C. E. Tolhurst, J. H. Van Harding, W. G. Williams, W. W. Ward, Jr., 
C. H. Warner. 

The officers elected for the term ending January, 1899, are: Regent, 
J. A. Jesty; Vice Regent, .H.J. Ronalds; Orator, George Shrive; Past 
Regent, W. W. Ward; Secretary, F. T. Doolittle; Collector, W. C. 
Jesty; Treasurer, J. P. Speer; Chaplain, C. E. Conkling; Guide, Thomas 
Hunt; Warden, Edwin Speer; Sentry, E. A. Staehley; Organist, Harry 
Green; Representative to the Grand Council, W. \V. Ward; Alternate 
to the Grand Council, A. O. Jackson; Trustees, S. H. Rhodes, W. M. 
Petty. 

To-day there are one hundred and ninety-six members belonging to 
the Rutherford Council. 

BOILING .SPRING LODGE, OF FREE .\ND ACCEPTED MASONS OF RUTHEK- 
FORD, N.J. 

The present growing and successful lodge of Free Masons at Ruther- 
ford would hardly be recognized as the infant Lodge that on the ninth 
day of December, 1881, met in the upper room of old Union Hall on 
Ames Avenue and were officially instituted as a Masonic lodge under 
the jurisdiction of the Cirand Lodge of the State of New Jersey. The 
organization of a Masonic Lodge at Rutherford was long in abeyance. 
In 1880 there were but few Masons in Rutherford, and the population of 
the whole township of Union was scarcely more than 2500, but a few 
faithful Masons among whom may be mentioned Dr. Kenneth K. King, 
Mr. Jacob H. Vreeland, Captain Addison Ely who was then principal 
of the public school and Abraham B. McKeon from time to time dis- 
cussed the propriety of organizing a Masonic Lodge, and for this purpose 



HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 441 



with other Masons in the nein-hhorhmid they met and for more than a 
year continued their meetinj^s in the upper room of Union Hall and 
exemplified the work, and finally obtained a dispensation from the Grand 
Master to institute the Lodg-e provided they were qualified. The appli- 
cation was referred to the Passaic Lodge and an exemplification of the 
work of a Free Mason made before them. This being' satisfactory the 
Lodg-e was ordered instituted. The warrant members were: Jacob H. 
Vreeland, Worshipful Master; Dr. Kenneth K. King, Senior Warden; 
Eugene K. Sloat, Junior Warden; William Earle, Secretary; Arbam 
B. McKeon, Treasurer and Andrew McClaury, Daniel D. Burtis, 
Louis Kruger, Addison ]<^ly and Peter Dammers. Addison Ely 
was the first Senior Deacon and held the office for several years. 
Peter Dammers and Louis Kruger were Masters of Ceremonv 
and Daniel D. Burtis was Tyler. It would be an incomplete his- 
tory if Past Master William H. Van Houten of Paterson, Orange 
Lodge, were overlooked in this connection for to him the Lodge owes 
much as its first instructor. Of the eleven members who worked so 
diligently to establish Boiling Spring Lodge Dr. Kenneth K. King, 
Abrani B. McKeon and Louis Kruger have gone to that bourne from which 
no traveler returns. Dr. King's was the first death in the Lodge and 
he was buried with Masonic honors in Greenwood Cemetery. From a 
Lodge of eleven members the Rutherford Lodge now has about one 
hundred members and is in every way a successful and thriving Lodge. 
The room in Union Hall proved inadequate and insecure and Mr. Arthur 
Van Winkle who afterward became a Mason fitted up in this building 
an excellent lodge which served for many years, and in this room the 
first officers were installed on the 27th day of February, 1882, by William 
Hardacre the Grand Master of the State of New Jersey, six grand 
officers being in attendance. Afterward the lodge moved to the Bell- 
chambers Building where it now has pleasant and spacious quarters. 
Its membership includes almost all the influential and prominent men of 
the borough of Rutherford and surrounding villages. It is fulfilling 
the purposes of its organization to a high degree. Since its organiza- 
tion 129 Masons have joined the lodge and there have been losses from 
deaths and demits amounting to 34. The present officers of the lodge 
are: W. M., James Leyland; S. W., David Taylor; J. W., Frank P. 
Newman; Treasurer, Theo. Muehling; Secretary, W. A. Tompkins; S. 
D., H. J. Ronalds; J. D., Charles G. Hyslop; Chaplain. R. P. Klinger; 
S. M. C, W. F. B. Pratt; J. M. C, J. C^ E. Chambers; Marshal, Charles 
Rehwoldt; Tyler, A. B. Douglas. The lodge now has a membership-of 
ninety-one, and is in a prosperous condition. 

(^f the original members of the lodge who are still members and 
attend its meetings are Past Master Jacob H. Vreeland, William Earle, 
Addison Ely and Peter Dammers. 

THE woman's KEADIN(; CH'K. 

The Woman's Reading Club was originated bv Mrs. Margaret G. 
Riggs in 18S9, when she invited a fevi- ladies to unite in an association 



442 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

for mutual improvement. Twenty-two women soon after effected an 
org-anization. with Mrs. Riggs as president. Mrs. Castor, Mrs. Gnade, 
Mrs. Crear, Mrs. A. W. \'an Winkle and Mrs. Henry G. Bell, succeeding 
to the presidency in the order named. The membership increased 
rapidly until a question of limitation was brought up, but that idea was 
abandoned, and all who sought for admission were received. When it 
became necessarv to have more room, the Field Club kindly offered the 
use of their parlors. The offer was accepted and meetings were held 
in the home at the corner of Chestnut street and Franklin Place, until 
the Field Club, after changing its name to that of "Union Club." built 
its new house on Park Avenue. The Reading Club then met here until 
the winter of 1896, when they removed to the hall of the Library 
building. They are now investing a part of each year's income in a 
building and loan association. They have a choice ctdlection of over 
two hundred volumes and a bookcase, toward the furnishing of the home 
they hope to have. 

The question of a public library had been agitated to some extent, 
when Mr. H. S. Rhodes took the initial step by holding a concert for 
the purpose of starting a fund. This effort netted one hundred and ten 
dollars, but nothing further was done until 1S'»3, when Mrs. Henry G. 
Bell opened the subject in the Reading Club. Mrs. Gnade, then presi- 
dent, appointed a committee, calling a meeting for February 16, which 
resulted in a good attendance, Mr. Joseph P. Cooper in the chair. On 
March 10, 1893, The Rutherford Free Library Association was organ- 
ized, the constitution and by-laws, as reported, being adopted March 
24th. Mr. Cooper as Mayor of the borough, was the first president, the 
other officers being elected by members of the Association. At a meet- 
ing held on April l7th about six hundred dollars was subscribed. This 
called out a spirit of helpfulness among the members of the Reading 
Club, when it was proposed that each member contribute a book, the 
whole to go as a gift from the Club to the Library. Nearly four hun- 
dred books were secured by this movement. 

Rev. George H. Badger, who had had some experience in such work, 
undertook the business of arranging the details, shelving and catalog- 
ing. A room in the Shafer building was taken and furnished, when 
Miss Anna T. Cooper, who had just finished a course of study in the 
work, was engaged as librarian. May 4th, 1894. the library was opened 
with about eleven hundred volumes. 

At present there are in all about twenty-five hundred volumes in 
various classes of literature. September, 1896, Mr. David B. Ivison 
presented to the library association the stone building on the corner of 
Park Avenvie and Chestnut Street, formerly occupied by the Presbyterian 
Church. A reference and reading room was now opened and supplied 
with more than fifty volumes of cyclopedias, dictionaries, etc., with the 
jjrincipal current literature of the day. 

The a])i)ropriati(ms from the borough have been about two hundred 
and tiftv dollars annually. This with members' fees and gifts are the 



HISTOKY OF BERGEN COUNTY 44.^ 

only source <if support. Kent paid by the Reading- Club for use of the 
hall has added a little but much more is needed. 

THE UNION Cl.Un. 
M. \V. H.WVES. * 

The Union Club of Rutherford was organized March 1st, 1S')2, when 
the following- officers were elected : 

Charles Burrows, President; E. J. Turner, \'ice-President; W. H. 
Stevens, Treasurer; C. Danuheim, Recording Secretary; R. H. Beau- 
mont, Corresponding- Secretar-s'. The first Board of Governors consisted 
of H. H. Copeland, T. W. Alyea, W. H. Smith, M. W. Hawes, G. V. 
Sloat and A. h. Watson. The Union Cluli was the successor of the 
Rutherford Field Club, which owned the building on the corner of Frank- 
lin Place and Chestnut Street, and which was organized by the combi- 
nation of the Rutherford Wheelmen and the Rutherford Chess Club. 
The Union Club in IS'O had a membershij) of fifty-nine, which has 
increased to one hundred and seventy. The object of the Club is the 
social enjoyment of the members, which is sui)plied by committees ap- 
pointed by the President each year, who arranges stage entertainments, 
billiard, j)ool and bowling tournaments, informal dances, recepticms, 
card parties, &c. The charter of the Club prohibits the sale or use of 
intoxicating liquors in the club house, and by the rules and reguhitions 
of the club no gambling is allowed. These features make it a desirable 
resort for all the members and a place where their wives or parents can 
find no objection to their attendance. Friday evening of each week is 
set aside as ladies' night, on which night there is always a bowling 
match, dance, card party or a stage entertainment. The present officers 
of the Club are: Henry Prentiss, President; H. N. Bulling-ton, \'ice- 
President; W. H. Stevens, Treasurer; J. E. Spaulding, Recording Sec- 
retary; J. K. Watson, Corresponding Secretary. Board of Governors, 
W. Williams, M. W. Hawes, C. A. Goodspeed, (t. T. Hollister, A. I). 
W bee lock, J. Zahn. 

KUTHEKFOKD LODCiE NO 240, I. O. (). K., NEW JEKSKV. 

The birth of Odd Fellowship in this country took i)lace (m the 2(>th 
of April, 1S19, butit was not until August .^, IS.i.^, that the Grand Lodge 
of New Jerse_y was instituted, while Rutherford Lodge No. 240 dates its 
existence from the 17th of October, l.S').^. 

In ISO 1-42 certain residents of this borough, members of the order but 
away from home lodges, conceived the idea of forming a subordinate 
lodge here to which they might attach themselves, thus securing the 
benefits of a lodge home, so dear to every member of the order. 

The following seventeen members of the lodge were the main ones 
instrumental in the organization of the order in this town: James Lev- 
land. Charles T. Johnson, Wm. J. Singerland, tieorge K. Thomas, Julius 
Jaeger, Horatio N. Fish, David R. MacNeil, John J. Dupuv, C. Henry 
Kotzenberg, William Henkelman, George Ruckstuhl, James H. vSniith, 

*Froni -'Thini,'-^ Old ainl New." 



444 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

Rensselaer Furman, William W. Butler, Joseph W. Beebe, William 
Gibson, Frank Spitz. 

Forty-five members were taken in nn the nig-ht of institution, 
making a total of sixty-two members to start with. 

While the growth of the order here has been slow, it has been sure, ' 
the present membership being about eighty-five. 

The lodge is sustained by the payment by each member of $8.00 per 
year dues, the member receiving in case of sickness the sum of S5.00 
per week, and in case of death his benficiary is entitled to $100.00 
funeral benefits, and in case of the death of a member's wife he receives 
S50.00 

The f)rder in this State has increased from SI members in 1833 to 
about 30,000 in 1897, while the membership in the country at the present 
time is nearly 700,000. 

The amount expended for relief of distressed brothers in this State 
for 1897 has been nearly SISO.OOO. 

KNIGHTS OF PYTHIAS. 

The great American Order of Knights of Pythias was introduced 
in Rutherford on September 16, 1893, by the organization of Rutherford 
Lodge, No. 150. Among the names of those found on the charter of 
this lodge are A. H. Brinkerhoff, J. C. Sares, Dr. J. J. Ketchum, H. R. 
Harden, S. T. Davy, W. H. Smith, G. Y. Renshaw and John Patrick. 
An acti-e interest in the work of the lodge has been taken by nearly all 
the charter members, so that at the present time the roster of the lodge 
contains the names of considerably over one hundred members, and all 
are men of good social standing, as well as being fitted physically and 
morally for membership in the lodge. 

The endowment or life insurance plan in this order is a well con- 
sidered and admirably conducted business. Members may insure in 
amounts from $500 to $3000, with rates according to age. Payments 
monthly, and only one payment per month, or twelve per year required, 
under any circumstances. This is made possible by a reserve fund being 
on hand of half a million dollars, which is so invested as to be absolutely 
safe, draws good interest, and can be called upon to any amount required 
in an emergency. Confidence is shown in this by the one fact that about 
$.■^0,000 of this insurance is being carried by members of the Rutherford 
Lodge. 

BO.\.KD OF TKADE. 
KI"THEKFOKD .\ND E.\ST KUTHEKFOKD. 

This Association was formed for the encouragement of trade and 
commerce for the Ruther fords, the certificate of incorporation having 
been taken out and recorded at Hackensack May 18, 1897. The follow- 
ing list of names records the promoters of this business enterprise and 
are as follows: Joseph P. Cooper, William McKenzie, E. J. Turner, 
Luther Shafer, Charles Burrows, W. H. Smith, C. R. Soley, John G. 
Niederer, Frank E. Hatch. Robert M. Watson. A. P. Hackett. I. B. 



HISTORY OF BEKCIEN COUNTY 445 

Nichols, John E. Tyler, Edward A. Jeannerot, William (iramlich. 
Charles F. Harring-ton, J. L. Chapman. 

The officers for 18'»S are as follows: President, William McKenzie; 
Vice President, Joseph P. Cooper; Secretary, Luther Shafer; Treasurer, 
Charles Burrows; Directors, Edward J. Turner, Charles F. Harring-ton, 
Charles R. Soley. John (t. Niederer, Robert M. Watson, William H. 
Smith, Frank E. Hatch, A. P. Hackett. 

KTTHKKFOKD NATIOXAI. BANK. 

Established May ,^, 1895, its career since its inception has been 
characterized by the most gratif^-ing deyfree of prosperity. It has a ])aid 
up capital of S50,()00, with a surplus and undivided profits of Sl.^UOi), 
which success is attributed to the fidelity with which its officers and 
directors have administered their trusts. The building occupied is 
owned by the bank, and is a great attraction to the place. It is hand- 
somely finished in hardwood, and contains all the latest im])rovements, 
including fire and burglar proof vaults and safes. A legitimate national 
l)anking business is transacted in loans, deposits, exchange, collections, 
etc., its facilities not being surpassed by any contemporaneous institu- 
tion in this section. The following well and favorably known gentle- 
men comprise its officers and board of directors: President, Henry R. 
Jackson; Vice President, Robert D. Kent; Cashier, Henry R. Harden; 
Directors, H. R. Jackson, R. D. Kent, Julius Roehrs, E. J. Turner, Carl 
Von Hartz, A. W. Van Winkle, Peter H. Kip, J. P. Cooper. William 
McKenzie, A. L. Watson and F. B. Poor. 

COMPANY I,, SECOND KEGIMENT, NATIONAL CrAKD. N. j. 

The military spirit seemed to take possession of the youth of 
Rutherford early in the year 1892 and Robert A. Brunner and Wilkin 
Bookstaver, formerly of Company G, 2nd N. G.,N. J., both of whom 
afterward became officers of Company L. were active in securing enroll- 
ments for the purpose of organizing the National Guard Company. 
After the enrollment in some measure had been completed the members 
met in the upper part of the Shafer Building, ana afterward in the old 
Union Hall and were drilled in military tactics by Lieutenant Book- 
staver and Mr. George M. Pollard. Early in the Spring of 1893 an 
election of officers was held and Addison Ely a prominent lawyer of 
Rutherford was invited to command the Company as its Captain. Cap- 
tain Ely had formerly belonged to Company C, Third Regiment, N. G., 
N. J., commanded by Captain W^. H. DeHart. for many years the crack 
company of the National Guard. Prior to Captain Ely's election there 
had been several aj)plications to the State Military Department to muster 
the company into the State service, but although much effort and influ- 
ence were used these applications had met with no success. 

Captain Ely secured the services of Lieutenant J. M. Poole an 
expert tactician, a Lieutenant and afterward Captain of (ine of the 
comi)anies of the 9th Regiment N. G., N. J. Lieutenant Poole drilled 



44(1 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

the company one nigiit a week for several weeks and pronounced them 
efficient, and they were tinally mustered into State service. 

The Fourth Regiment at Jersey City, and the Second with head- 
quarters at Paterson under Colonel Moore had recently been reorganized, 
and it was to one of these that the company sought to be assigned. 
Colonel S. V. S. Muzzy who had secured a high reputation as a military 
officer, about this time succeeded to the command of the Second Regiment, 
and Captain Ely applied to him for admission as one of the companies of 
his Regiment. After much urging Colonel Muzzy accepted the company 
and used his influence to secure the desired order, which was finally 
made and on the 22nd day of June, 1893, the company was mustered into 
the State service. In the fall of 1896 the company undertook the con- 
struction of an Armory on Park Avenue, having previously acquired a 
plot of ground 50 by i50 feet for S6000. The Armory building contains 
a flat for a janitor, a large company room and two stores in the front 
part, and a drill shed 118 by 50 feet in the rear, fitted up with a stage 
and equipments for public entertainments. The basement is arranged 
for a bowling alley and rifle range. 

The company has occupied this Armory since the early Spring of 
1897. The total cost of building and ground was about S24,000of which 
a large portion has been paid. In April 1897 a fair was held netting a 
large sum of money, the ladies' association contributing much to its 
success. 

In April, 1898, when war with Spain was declared and the National 
Guard called out, Company L responded with the full quota called for. 
Fifty-eight men and three officers of Company L were accepted and 
mustered into the United States service with twenty-three volunteer 
r&cruits on May 14, 1898. The officers mustered in were: Captain, 
Addison Ely; First Lieutenant, Joseph J. Blake; Second Lieutenant, 
Robert A. Brunner. 

The company having gone into camp at Sea Girt on May 2d 
remained there until June 1st, when they were ordered to Jacksonville, 
Florida, to await further orders. They were returned to New Jersey in 
September and on November 17th were mustered out of the United 
States service. Under the re-organization of 1899 the company was 
relieved from service. 

GERSHOM MOTT POST. 

The Post bearing this name was instituted April 30th, 1891, with 
twenty-four members, N. W. Hawes being its first Commander, which 
office he held for two years. Then came Robert Leeds, who held the 
office for three ^-ears, the members recognizing the fact that it was due 
solely to his indefatigable labors that the Post was instituted. Under 
his command the Post flourished and added to its membership until it 
reached the number of fifty-four. Horatio N. Fish then succeeded to 
the command, holding the office for one year, and then came John 
Amery, who died in command. Clifford K. Reece was then elected to 
serve for the unexpired term, and at the last election was again elected 




lAITHEK SHAFEK 



448 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

Commander. Throug'h harmony and wise leadership the Post has 
accumulated quite a fund for the relief of sick or disabled soldiers or 
sailors or their wives or orphans. 

During' the Spanish-American war the Post was among- the fore- 
most in g-iving money to relieve the families of those who had g^one to 
the front. 

I.l'THEK SHAFEK. 

Mr. Shafer is one of the substantial and progressive citizens of 
Rutherford. He is a wise counselor, and was one of the leading- public 
spirited citizens of the place who orig-inated its borough government in 
1881. Mr. Shafer is a native of New York State and was born in Mont- 
gomery, Orange county, in 1848. His father was a farmer and the son 
had a share of the farm work to perform, attending the district school 
as his duties would permit. His parents planned to give him a college 
education but circumstances changed the course of events. His father 
dying when young Luther was but twelve years of age, made it neces- 
sary for him to contribute to his own support. He attended the Mont- 
gomery Academv for a time, and afterward entered the law office of R. 
R. Lea in New York city. Later he secured a clerkship in the office of 
Downing & Couert at Flushing, L. L, and although but seventeen years 
of age, was made assistant postmaster. In 1867 he entered the Albany 
Law School, going soon after leaving that institution into the office of 
David Dudley Field, where he filled an important position. From there 
he went as managing clerk for Vernam & Wilcox, where he remained 
until he began the pratice of law in New York city in 1872. One year 
later Mr. Shafer was admitted to practice in New Jersey, and in 187(> 
was made a counselor. This gave him the legal right to full active 
practice both in New York and New Jersey. From 1877 until 1889, he 
was counsel for Union township, during which time he secured the 
passage of the Tax Act of 1874. He has always been a Republican. 
Mr. Shafer's services and abilities having been recognized, he was 
elected Mayor of Rutherford in which office he proved an efficient and 
worthy incumbent, for a period of several terms. P'rom the incorpora- 
tion of the borough in 1881, until 1890, Mr. Shafer was noted as its coun- 
sel, absolutely refusing any compensation for his services. He has also 
been counsel for Union and Boiling Springs townships and for the vil- 
lage of Carlstadt and also solicitor of the Rutherford Mutual Loan and 
Building Association and is now counsel for East Rutherford, Carlstadt 
and Montvale. 

JOHN M. BEI.L. 

When John M. Bell came to Rutherford, less than ten years ago. 
he immediately set about a preparation for active usefulness in his 
adopted home. He is a Scotch-Irishman, born at Kells, Ireland, August 
3, 18()(l. 

Although of foreign birth Mr. Bell is an ideal American citizen, 
having been educated in this country imbibing the tastes and acquiring 
the habits of the people. He was six years old when he came to America 




JOHN T>\. KKI.I. 



450 HISTOKY OF BERGEN COUNTY 



with his parents, who located in Schuylkill county, Pennsylyania. 
Young- Bell receiyed his education in the public schools of Schuylkill 
county, and came to Rutherford in 1891 . 

After studying- law for some time in the office of Addison Ely, Mr. 
Bell entered the office of Luther Shafer where he completed his course 
and was admitted to the Bar at the November Term, 1894. He lirst 
opened an office for the practice of his profession, in the Shafer Build- 
ino- in March of the following year, and was almost immediately made 
counsel to the Borough of Rutherford, which office he still holds. He 
has also been counsel to the Borough of Lodi since March 1807. Mr. 
Bell is at present member of Assembly, elected on the Republican ticket 
at the last election, 1897. 

KEY. EDWIN A. BULKLEY, D. D. 

Rev. Edwin A. Bulkley, D. D., who was born in Charleston, S. C, 
January 25, 1826, is a descendant in direct line from Rev. Peter Bulkley, 
whose wife was Lady Grace Chetwode. Became to America in 1(..^4. 
from Odell, England, and was born in 1583. 

This man, distinguished among the early colonists, was descended 
from a long line of noble ancestry, easily traceable to Robert de Bulkley 
(1200), his descendants still holding one of the ancestral seats in Eng- 
land. He succeeded his father. Rev. Edward Bulkley, D. D., m the 
rectorship of Odell or Woodhill. His earnest preaching, and resistance 
to ecclesiastical tyranny compelled his emigration to New England, 
where he became the founder of Concord, Mass., and pastor of its tirst 
church. Cotton Mather in a funeral sermon speaks of his noble birth, 
and praises his benevolence in spending his wealth, his eminent learn- 
in.^ and devoted piety. In his old church at Concord, the hrst provin- 
01^1 Cono-ress was held, and in its assembly were made those stirring 
speeches^by Hancock, Adams and other patriots which hastened the 
events of the Revolution. Rev. Gershom Bulkley son of Peter married 
Sarah, daughter of Charles Chauncey, D. D., President of Harvard 
College, and their son Edward married Dorothy Prescott. Next m line 
comes Charles Bulkley whose wife was Mary Sage, their son Charles 
beincr the great grandfather of Dr. Edwin A. This Charles married Mary 
Griswold. Dr. Bulklev's grandparents were Charles and Eunice 
(Robbins) Bulkley, whose son Erastus, father of Dr. Edwin A. married 
Mary Walbridge. 

The maternal line traces back to Henry Walbridge who came from 
Dorsetshire, England, about 1650. His son Ebenezer married Mary 
Durkee Their S(m Ebenezer and his wife Elizabeth Stebbms were the 
parents of Adolphus Walbridge and Mary Deming. the grandparents 
of Dr. Bulkley, his mother being their daughter Mary. Elizabeth 
Walbridu-e "The Dairyman's Daughter," memoralized by Leigh Rich- 
mond wis of this family. In Dr. Bulkley's children, early colonial 
lines 'of distincti.m unite; through him from Rev. Peter Bulkley; 
throu-'-h their mother from Henry Melchior Muhlenberg, of whom she 




KEV. IIK. HDWIN A. KII.KI.H^ 



452 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

is a lineal descendant. He was the Patriarch of the Lutheran Church 
in this country, and the father of those men of Revolutionar}- fame, 
Henry Aug-ustus Muhlenberg-, the first speaker of the first congress in 
New York city, and General Peter Muhlenberg, whose statue Pennsyl- 
vania has placed in the Rotunda of the capitol at Washington. 

Dr. Bulkley pursued his preparatory studies in New York city, 
entered Yale College in 1841, when not yet fifteen years of ag-e, and was 
graduated in 1844, subsequently finishing his professional studies in 
Union Theological Seminary in 1847. 

Last Fall (1897) he celebrated the fiftieth anniversary of his ordin- 
ation to the ministry, October 11, 1847, from which time his pastoral 
work had been almost unbroken. His first charge was at Geneva, N. 
Y., from 1847 to 1850, then in Groton, Mass., from 1850 to 1864. in 
Plattsburgh, N. Y., from 1864 to 1878, and in Rutherford, N. J., from 
1878 to 1898. On March 27, 1898, having labored about twenty years 
in the last place, and the condition of his health requiring a cessation 
from the active charge of a large congregation, he was released from 
his pastorate, and made "Pastor Emeritus." 

The honorary degree of Doctor of Divinity was conferred upon him 
in 1868, by the University of Vermont. The wisdom of his counsel, 
with his executive ability, has often been acknowledged in high official 
places in the gift of the Presbyterian Church. For twenty-five years 
he filled the most important Presbyterial office in the Presbyteries of 
Champlain, and of Jersey City. In 1883-84 he was moderator of the 
Synod of New Jersey, and had twice previously presided over the Synod 
of Albany. He was Clerk of the General Assembly of 1879 at Saratoga 
Springs. 

September 27. 1848, Dr. Bulkley was married to Miss Catharine F. 
Oakley of Huntington, L. I. 

JIR. DAVID B. IVISON. 

David B. Ivis<m, ex-president of the American Book Company, a 
prominent figure in the organization and development of the borough of 
Rutherft)rd in Bergen county, is a son of Henry Ivison, one of the 
pioneers in the school book trade of the country. Mr. Ivison is of 
Scotch ancestry, his father coming to this country in 1820, at the age of 
twelve years. Soon after completing an apprenticeship with the book- 
binding and bookselling house of William Williams, of Auburn, N. Y.. 
Mr. Ivis( n become the head of a prosperous business of his own. With 
a keen sense of the business conditions of the country, prevailing at that 
time, and with a full knowledge of the needs in his especial line, he 
decided to make the metropolis his field of operation. The business 
grew and prospered with the name of Ivison at the head of the firm, 
under the various names of Ivison & Phinney; Ivison, Phinney & Com- 
pany; Ivison, Phinney, Blakeman & Company; Ivison, Blakeman, Taylor 
& Company and Ivison, Blakeman & Company. Mr. David B. Ivis<m 
besran his business career with this house, under which he received a 




<^tx^/^^^^^^<>tl 



HISTOKV OF BHKCEN COUNTY 455 

skillful training' and had assumed a large share of the interest and all 
the responsibilities of his father, Mr. Henry Ivison, before his retire- 
ment in 1881, three years before his death. Mr. Ivistm became a full 
partner in the business, in 1863, which was then under the name of 
Ivison, Phinney, Blakeman & Company. At the time of the retirement 
of Mr. Henry Ivison, the firm was known as Ivison, Blakeman, Taylor 
& Company, which continued, until 1887, when ill health caused Mr. 
Taylor to withdraw, malting- it necessary to again change the name to 
that of Ivison, Blakeman & Company, which continued until the ccmsoli- 
dation of the several book concerns, resulting in a new corporation known 
as the American Book Company, in 1890. In this Mr. Ivison took a 
leading part, holding positions of the highest responsibility, until 18')4. 
He was then chosen president and held that office two years, when he 
resig-ned in 1896, with the most cordial relations existing among his as- 
sociates who became reccmciled to his withdrawal from the fact of his 
remaining on the board of directors, thus assuring his co-operation and 
continuance of interest in the company and the helpfulness of his large 
experience and wise counsel. The business life of these two successful 
men, father and son, covered a period of the greatest activity in the 
school book trade. The public were passing through an educational 
period in the matter of text books, for use in public school work, and in 
this the Ivison house took a leading part in sup])lving good school litera- 
ture. Mr. Ivison is a member of the Union League Club of New York and 
Union Club, of Rutherford, N. J. where he now resides. In religion he 
is a Presbyterian holding the office of ruling elder in the Rutherford 
congregation. At present he is traveling abroad for recreation and 
pleasure. 

Mr. Ivison's eldest son, Henr^- Ivison, also formerly a member of the 
original firm, succeeded his father, and was for ten years head of the 
Manufacturing Department of the American Book Company. He re- 
cently resigned from this position, and is now a member of the New 
York Stock Exchange. 

JOSEPH J. BL.\KK. 

Joseph J. Blake, formerly proprietor of the well-known Blake Res- 
tauant and Hotel, was born in New York city July 5, 1857. It was in the 
public schools of the city of New York young Blake was given an educa- 
tional start in life, but as soon as he was old enough to earn his living, 
necessity compelled him to relinquish the pursuit of knowledge for food 
and clothing. His business career was begun in the emploj^ of Justice 
William Haywood, who was operatingf a factory in New York for the 
manufacture of wall paper, and came to Rutherford with him in 1875. 
Upon returning to New York Mr. Blake was made superintendent of Bar- 
tholmae & Company's factory, having charge of more than two hundred 
hands. He remained with them until 1891, when he returned on account 
of failing health, and has been a resident of Rutherford since 1883, at 
which time he built his house at the corner of (irove Street and Erie 
Avenue. 




JOSEPH J. BI,AKE. 



HISTOKY OF- BEKGEN COUNTY 457 

Mr. Blake has taken an active interest in the affairs of the borougfh, 
and in 1842 was elected Councilman on both the Democratic and Citi- 
zens' tickets bv a large majority. He has been an active member of the 
Fire Department twelve years, and is a member of Eng'ine Company 
No. 2, of which he was assistant foreman two years and foreman three 
years. He was one of the originators of Company L, Second Regiment, 
N. J., and elected Second Lieutenant July 5, 18^(5, and First Lieutenant 
in the winter of 189f). 

Mr. Blake is a member of the Odd Fellows, Knights of Pythias, 
Royal Aracanum, Order of United Workman, and Business Mens' Pro- 
tective Association. He is also a member of the Rutherford Wheel- 
men of which organization he has been a trustee. 

In 1891, Mr. Blake began business next door to the large, commo- 
dious structure he remodeled and occupied until called into the Spanish- 
Cuban war. After which he removed to New York, where he resides 
now. Mr. Blake, as the First Lieutenant of Company L, was one of 
the most popular officers of the Second Regiment. 

In 1891, Mr. Blake began business in the store next door to the one 
he lately disposed of, remaining there five years. The present 
building is a pleasent and commodious structure which he remodeled 
in lS9f,. 

CiKL VON HAKTZ. 

Carl Von Hartz, president of the "Rutherford News Company," in 
the borough of Rutherford, is a native of Germany and was born in 1855 
in Diepholz, Hanover. In 1873 he came to America, subsequently entering 
the employ of a banking house, but remained in this business only a 
short time when he became connected with the business of C. .\. 
Auffmordt & Co., importers of dry goods. Following this he became 
associated with William Meyer & Co., lace importers. 

Since becoming a resident of Rutherford, Mr. Von Hartz has identi- 
fied himself with its interests, having been elected councilman in 1890, on 
the ticket brought out as the "Citizens' and Democratic" ticket, and two 
years later he was made a member of the finance committee, of which 
he was chairman, and was at the same time member of the committee 
on streets. 

Mr. Von Hartz is one of the founders of the Union Club of Ruther- 
ford and served for three years on the Board of Governors, then as vice- 
president and president; is also a member of the Royal Arcanum, and 
Knights of Pythias of Rutherford. In addition to these social and fra- 
ternal organizations he belongs to the Leiderkranz and Free Mason 
Societies of New York city. 

Mr. Von Hartz is a progressive man, and interested in all that per- 
tains to the improvement and building up of his Borough. 

MK. WILLIAM m'mAINS. 

William McMains, now a resident of Bradley Beach, N. J., has 
been prominent in Rutherford during the past thirty years. He was 




CAKI, VON HAKTZ 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 459 

born in Myroe, county Derry. Ireland, August 6, 1828. In 1850, he 
came to New York and subsequently carried on the drv goods business in 
that city for live or six years. In 1867, he married Miss Susan Simpson 
of New York, daughter of Richard Simpson, of the firm of Simpson & 
Cooper, contractors, removing soon afterward to Burlington, Iowa. He 
now ventured his all in the grocery business, and having lost every- 
thing, a few months afterward, by being burned out, he returned to 
New York in 1868, without a dollar. He then went to work for Simpson 
& Cooper. Eventually Mr. Simpson retired and Mr. McMains succeeded 
to his place; but in 1871, he gave up the business and came te Ruther- 
ford, somewhat discouraged at his pros])ects. With the thought that 
others had risen under adverse circumstances Mr. McMains again started 
in business, this time being succeesful in accumulating a large amount 
of propert}-. 

He first built a house on River Road, Kingsland, but in 187(), he 
moved to Rutherford and this year erected the McMains building on 
Depot Square, using it as a hotel for a number of years. This was the 
second brick house built in Rutherford. It was burned in 189(), and was 
immediately rebuilt. He also built other houses in Rutherford, and in 
1895, bought two cottages in Bradley Beach, N. J., where he now 
resides. Mr. McMains was Town Committeeman one term during which 
time some of the more important improvements in the little city were 
made. 

CAPTAIN ADDISON ELY. 

The subject of this sketch was descended from the Rev. George Ely, 
Vicar of Tenterden, county of Kent, England, through his son the Rev. 
Nathaniel Ely also a vicar of the Church of England and the latter's 
son Nathaniel who came to Massachusetts in the year 1634. Captain 
Ely's great-grandfather was Captain Levi Ely who was killed in the 
Revolutionary War in the Battle of Mohawk in 1780. His great-grand- 
mother was Abigail Sergeant whose father Lieutenant John Sergeant 
distinguished himself in the French and Indian War. His grandmother 
was the daughter of Colonel Samuel Rose a distinguished officer in the 
Revolutionary War. Captain Ely's mother was a Harrison, being 
descended from the same familv of which William H. Harrison and 
later Benjamin Harrison were distinguished members. The subject of 
this sketch was born at Westfield, Mass., in 1853, and came to New 
Jersey in 1862 with his father who settled at Bloomlield. N. J., within 
a few miles of which he has since lived. Captain Ely was prepared for 
Harvard College at the Newark Academy and Philips' Exeter Academy, 
and afterwards was graduated at the Polytechnic Institute. In 1871 he 
became a teacher in the public school at Connecticut Farms, Union 
county, N. J,, and later acted as principal of the High School at Cald- 
well, Essex county, and in 1879 came to Rutherford as principal of the 
Public School. He joined Company C, Third Regiment, the crack 
military organization of the New Jersey Nati(mal Guard in August, 
1872, and in 189.^ organized Company L, Second Regiment, National 




WILLIAM M MAINS. 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 4'»1 

Guard. N. J., which was mustered into the state service June 24, 1S'».^, 
of which Company he has been captain ever since. Captain Ely and 
his company volunteered in a body for the Spanish- American War April 
22, 1898, and were mustered into the United States service at Sea Girt 
May 14, 1898. On June 1st they were sent to the front beingf attached 
to the Seventh Army Corp of which General Fitzhugh Lee was the com- 
manding- officer, but remained in camp during- the whole periol of the 
war, at Jacksonville, Florida. 

Captain Ely was admitted to the bar at the February term of the 
Supreme Court 1888, and as Counsellor-at-Law four years later. Since 
his admission to the bar he has been recognized as a successful lawyer, 
taking in all the important litigations in his part of the State. Probably 
no other lawyer in New Jersey has been counsel in so many cases invol- 
ving the construction of Borough Law. The Borough Law of 1897 was 
formulated and almost entirely drafted by Captain Ely, and at present 
he is devoting a large amount of time to secure the passage of an act to 
give extra pay to the New Jersey soldiers in the Spanish-American War. 

On December 29th, 1874, he married Emily J. Johnson at Connecticut 
Farms, N. J., and while Captain Ely and his wife are still young peo- 
ple they have a family of ten children, seven boys and three girls all of 
whom are living. The oldest son, Addison Ely, Jr., is editor of the 
Bergen County Herald. The iother children are Seth Harrison, Sanford 
D., William H., Leon Abbett, Hiram Baldwin, James S. T. Stranahan, 
Abigail M., Emily J., and Clara Stranahan Ely. 

With the exception of the term of one year as member of the Board 
of Education of the borough of Rutherford, Captain Ely never held a 
public office although he has been actively identified with public affairs 
and has always expressed a deep interest in their proper conduct. His 
views on public questions have generally been pronounced. He has 
always been a steadfast Democrat, insisting that the liberties of the 
people are best maintained and preserved through the success of that 
party. As a Democrat his influence is second to none in the county of 
Bergen. In 1896 he was nominated for Congress in the Sth N. J. Con- 
gressional District and made a thorough and brilliant canvas, but that 
was a bad year for Democrats. 

DAVID BOSMAN. 

David Bosnian of Rutherford, prominently connected with the Erie 
railroad is a son of David and Sarah Bosman of Brooklyn, N. Y., where 
he was born December 18, 18()4. Young Bosman was educated in the 
" Old Public School No. 1," and in the High School of his native city, 
from which he was graduated in the class with Congressman Charles 
(i. Bennett. For some time after leaving school he was engaged in 
commercial pursuits, later entering the office of Hon. William B. Horn- 
blower of the New York bar, where he read law for several years. In 
1887 he became an employee of the Erie Railroad Company in the office 
of the general manager. Soon after this he was appointed private 



462 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

secretary to the president, John King-, and continued in this capacity 
until President King-"s resignation in 1895. Preyious to this in 1893, he 
was appointed secretary to the Receiyer of the road, in which office he 
continued until the reorganization of the company in 1895, when he was 
appointed assistant secretary of the Erie Railroad Company, where he 
still continues. In 1890 Mr. Bosman was one of the incorporators of 
the Chicag-o & Erie Railroad, being elected secretary of that road in 
1891 and in 1897 elected assistant secretary of the New York & Green- 
wood Lake Railway. All of these positions he still holds. 

In politics Mr. Bosman is a Republican, and has always taken an 
actiye interest in the affairs of the party, having served as delegate to 
numerous conventions and held various offices in the party organiza- 
tions. He was nominated on the Republican and Citizens' ticket for the 
office of Councilman in the Spring of 1898, and was elected by the 
largest majority ever given a candidate in that borough. He is chair- 
man of the Fire Committee and a member of the Finance, Police and 
Ordinance committee of the borough. 

Mr. Bosman is a Past Master and member of the Grand Lodge of 
the A. O. U. W., a member of the Union Club, Junior Order of Ameri- 
can Mechanics, Alumni Association of the Brooklyn High School and 
of the Republican Club. 

In 1892 Mr. Bosman was married to Miss Emily Sloane, of Brook- 
lyn, N. Y. 

(lAKKABKANT KYEKSON ALYEA. 

(iarrabrant Ryerson Alyea, at one time postmaster of Rutherford 
and for twenty-live years teacher and superintendent of schools in and 
about Rutherford, is a native of Paterson, N. J., born December IS, 
1841. 

When eighteen years of age he came to Rutherford and began 
teaching school but in 1861 he left his chosen profession for a place in 
the Ocean National Bank, New York, where he remained seven years 
filling all the positions of trust in that institution except those of cashier 
and president. In 1868 he returned to Rutherford and to school work, giv- 
ing his attention to pedagogy and didactics, nothing diverting, until 
1892. At this time a change from a professional to a business career was 
made by accepting a position in the Peoples' Bank, Rutherford, remaining 
Cashier of that Institution until i894. He then became postmaster of the 
borough, tilling that position with credit to himself until relieved by 
change of administration in 1898. Mr. Alyea was also collector when 
postmaster, and in fact he has filled every position of trust in the 
borough except that of mayor and he was only defeated for that office 
by a few votes in favor of his opponent, Luther,Shafer. 

Mr. Alyea was marred to Miss Martha Brinkerhoff October 20, iS69, 
and not only by marriage but by both the paternal and maternal lines 
is connected with the Ryersons, Paulisons and Cadmuses, all old families 
of Holland ancestry and French Huguenot extraction. Mr. Alyea's 
oldest son William T. Alyea was, until his death, which occured Janu- 



HISTOKV OK BEKGEN COUNTY 46."? 

ary 13, 1899 a student-at-law. His oldest daug-hter Eva B., is a graduate 
of the State Normal School, and taught in School District .V( until her 
marriage. 

Mr. Alvea is a Past Master in the Masonic fraternit}-, and is also 
a prominent member in the Knights of Pythias and Odd Fellows. 

\v. J. r.A\VKi-;NsoN & co. 

C. \V. Lawrenson, who for twiiity-tive years has been manager for 
Spaulding & Co., of New York, one of the largest concerns of the kind 
in tlie country dealing in Sporting (joods, removed to Rutherford from 
the city of New York in 188.^. 

His son W. J. Lawrenson, the head of the firm that now bears his 
name, was born in Rutherford in 1S78, in which place he was educated 
and prepared for his business career. In 1897 he ojjcned the well 
equipped and commodious establishment now occui)ied at 90 Park 
A\ enue. 

This business, though but two years old, has stepi)ed to the front 
rank among the enterprising dealers of the towti and enjoys a liberal 
and first-class patronage. 

The compan}- carry in stock a tine line of Sjjaulding's bicycles and 
other wheels of the "best make" which deserve the term "celebrated." 
Messrs. Lawrenson & Co. are business men and besides renting and 
repairing, which is promptly attended to, they also keep a complete 
assortment of bicycle sundries usually found in all well conducted 
establishments. 

KfCKSTI-HI. KKOTHICKS. 

Cieorge and Adam Ruckstuhl began the manufacture of pianos in 
Rutherford in 1893. The brothers are natives of New York city where 
thev received skilled training in the art of piano making, the elder hav- 
ing been in the employ of Chambers & Co., the younger with Steinway, 
both having perfected themselves in the work years before beginning for 
themselves. 

The Ruckstuhl j)iano is an instrument of high grade with tine tone 
and finished workmanship, its good (jualities being protected by patents, 
the result of years of test and study. Besides the factory in Ruther- 
ford, the Ruckstuhl Brothers have salesrooms in both the cities of 
Passaic and Jersey City, where their trade is in keeping with their 
enviable reputation. 

]Mr. (ieorge Ruckstuhl, the senior member of the firm, has been an 
active enterprising citizen of Rutherford since his coming to the place 
in 1S8(). He has been identified with the fire department of Rutherford 
for ten years, and was foreman of the company. He was elected Justice 
of the Peace in the Spring of 1898 being- the only Democrat elected on 
the ticket. He is also a member of the C)dd Fellows Lodge, of the 
Knights of Pythias, and is identified with other societies and enterprises 
of Rutherford. 

They erected their new building in 1899. 



4()4 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

KRANK E. HATCH. 

About f(/rty years ag'o, in the village of Watertown, Connecticut, 
the subject of this sketch first saw the light of day. His father was a 
mechanic and skilled worker in wood and iron; his mother of true 
Yankee blood had much to do wth the forming of his character. The 
son, Frank E. Hatch, inherited a taste for mechanical pursuits, and the 
genius of mechanism thus transmitted has proved a rich legacy. With- 
out money but with a fair education, young Hatch when a lad entered 
the field of labor for himself. At thirteen years of age he was earning 
six dollars a week, and as experience and opportunity afforded, he was 
advanced in keeping with his abilities. Possessing an inventive genius 
he won laurels which soon distinguished him from the ordinary opera- 
tor. Besides skill in handwork, he excelled as a designer. He 
was the first to build special machinery for drilling several holes in 
iron, at one and the same time, while he also originated the three 
spindle drills and the combination dies. in\enting this machinery before 
he was sixteen years of age. 

Mr. Hatch ccmtinued his work in New York and Brooklyn, whert- 
he was married to Miss Emily L. Bull, in 1878. The father, Mr. 
George W. Hatch, a few years afterward moved to Allendale, this 
county, where he now resides, and in 1887, the son moved to Ruther- 
ford, where he has become a known factor in the upbuilding of this 
little citv. Some four years ago, following the charitable bent of his 
nature, he sought to aid another in a financial way which resulted 
finally in the purchase of the Park Pharmacy. This store with its 
trimmings and finished equipments, is one of the finest of the kind in 
Bergen county. It is under the management of an able pharmacist 
with a corps of competent assistants and is a credit to the town. 

Mr. Hatch is constantly on the road, in charge of other interests 
that keep him traveling North and South and from coast to coast almost 
without cessation. He is sole agent for some half dozen large manu- 
facturers of paper box machinery, for the United States, in which his 
father assists him. As a public spirited citizen, Mr. Hatch has been a 
leading factor in the Rutherford Board of Trade, and has identified him- 
self with all the prominent societies and institutions of the place. He 
is a member of the I. O. O. K. and of the Free Mason lodge, was one of 
the charter members of I^incoln League and has been a promoter of 
nearly every enterprise looking to the growth of Rutherford, in which 
he takes great pride. Mr. Hatch is a self made man in the true sense 
of the term. 

MK. GEORGE B. HOI.IIAX. 

George B. Holman. pro])rietor of Holman's Steam Carpet Cleaning 
Works, is one of the bright men of the country. His father, George 
W. Holman, was a man of marked characteristics, who as a poor orphan 
boy made his way to New York state, then to Chicago, returning to 
New York in l,s5(i, having succeeded in all his business enterprises. 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 4(>0 

He was married in 1S()1, to Miss Jane Crocker of Lyme, Conn., becom- 
ing a resident of Rutherford in 1S72. After serving on the police force 
of New York for several years he was made Sergeant in 1866, ana dur- 
ing the war acted for a time as government detective in the citv. He 
died in 1872. 

George B. Holman was born in l.S(>(>, and at nineteen years of age 
began business for himself. Upon securing the loan of ten dollars on 
the night of June 22, 1885. he took the initial step in his business 
venture. Although in ill health, he attended an ice-cream festival at 
the Methodist Church assisting at the table and under each plate as it 
was served he placed his business card, as an upholsterer. That night's 
advertisement brought him sixty dollars worth of orders. In one month 
from that time he was employing a man and had more work than they 
both could do. In December, 188f>, he built an extension to his mother's 
house for a shop, and the following vear Ixnight the site which his 
house and (jther buildings now occupy. 

In 18S7 he erected a two-story building and in 18S"i added Steam 
Carpet Cleaning Works. In 18")1 he put u\> a three-story house for 
upholstering, and in l.S'O converted the original two-story structure into 
a residence, b\' adding a front and other extensions. In October 18'),i 
he was married to Miss Ethelyn R. Huntly of Lyme, Conn. 

Thev have one child, a son. Mr. Holman does a large business, 
emjdoying several men constantly. 

COKNKI.irS COI.I.IN'S. 

Cornelius Collins the well known Coroner and undertakerof Ruther- 
ford, is of Irish descent, his father having emigrated from Ireland in 
ISO.v Mr. Collins was born at Littleton, Morris county, N. J.. August 
21, 1842, where he recieved his education in the public schools. At 
eighteen years of age the iron manufacturing establishment of William 
Berdan of Trov, New York, was entered where he learned the trade of 
making horse shoes, an industry which was carried on extensively and 
where he remained twenty-three years. In 1877, he came to Ruther- 
ford, finding employment in the locomotive shops of the Delaware and 
Lackawana R. R. In 188.^, Mr. Collins opened undertaking rooms with 
his son John, under the firm name of C. Collins & Son, and three years 
later bought a lot on the north side of Park Avenue and erected a two 
story and basement brick building, where they opened a stock of furni- 
ture, and did an extensive business not only in furniture Init in livery 
and undertaking. In 1892, this partnership was dissolved since which 
time Mr. Collins has carried on the undertaking business alone, being 
assisted in the work of embalming by his daughter Abby, who like him- 
self holds a diploma from the National Embalming College, New York. 

In 1863 Mr. Collins married Miss Healy of Albany, N. Y., their 
children are John, Cornelius, William, Abby and Annie, all living. Mrs. 
Collins died in 1882, and the following year he married Miss Alice Cor- 
bitt of New York. Of this marriage there is one child, Alice. 



466 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

Mr. Collins has held a number of political offices. He was Super- 
visor of Hig-hwavs for six years; was first made cori>ner b}- appointment 
from Governor Grig-g-s and afterward elected to the same office in 1896, 
for a term of three years; was made Justice of the Peace in 18'<3, for five 
years and in 1898, he was appointed Recorder of the boroug-h of Ruther- 
ford. Mr. Collins was with (reneral Kilpatrick, in the Harris Cavalry 
for two and one half years. 

ni^. COKXliLirS H. ALI.EX. 

American dentists are noted for being- the best dentists in the world. 
As a rule thev are thorouglv trained and expert in the use of many in- 
struments utilized in modern dentistry. What is true of the profession 
as a whole is true of the individual members of the fraternity. 

The enviable reputation attained by Dr. Cornelius H. Allen during 
his stay in Rutherford, is a credit to the profession he represents. He 
is English bv birth, and was born in Manchester in 1858. Ten years 
later, he came with his father to Jersey City, where he served an ap- 
prenticeship under him in the gold leaf business. 

His inclinations, however, were decidedly in favor of a professional 
career, and in 1893 he entered the New York Dental College, from which 
after a thorough course, he received his merited titled D. D. S. Dr. 
Allen is a licensed practitioner in the states of New Jersey and New 
York. He occupies a fine suite of rooms at 8S Park Avenue, Rutlier- 
ford. 

ArCrST NADI.KH. 

August Nadler, the florist, is a native of Switzerland, bt)rn in 1S46, 
and received his education in his native land, coming to America in 
1865, when he located in Westchester county. N. Y. He first worked 
for a florist, and later was employed by Mr. Leland. the well known 
hotel man, whose son is now the proprietor of a hotel in New York 
city. He remained three years with him taking care of his grounds at 
his home in New Rochelle, N. Y. In 1868, he came to Rutherford, N. 
J., where he was for some time in the employ of Mr. David B. Ivison. 
In 1871, he bought ten lots, on Woodward Avenue, for a greenhouse, 
and has at the present time, seven thousand five hundred square feet 
under glass. He opened an office on Park Avenue in 1895, and keeps 
on hand a supply of palms, and plants of various kinds. He is prepared 
to furnish cut flowers, and floral designs at short notice, and enjoys a 
liberal patronage in the retail trade, both at home and in New York 
city. In March 1871. he was married to Miss Elizabeth Tilly. She 
died in 1891, and in 1894, he contracted a second marriage with Miss 
Annie G. Baker, of Martinsburg, West Virginia. Mr. Nadler is a mem- 
ber of the Presbyterian church. 

MK. FEKDIN.\ND BKUN'NEK. 

Mr. Ferdinand Brunner, the popular jeweler, of Rutherford, N. J., 
may well be classed am(mg the pioneers of Bergen county. 



HISTOKY OF BKKC.EN COUNTY 4C>7 

Mr. Brunner came to this country when a boy nine years of age. He 
attended public school in New York and at an early ag-e entered the 
jewelry business to which he has ever since been devoted. He tirsl 
became identified with Bergen county in 1S(,() when lie moved to Carl- 
stadt. In 1868 he purchased ground and erected a house at Woodridge. 
At all times interested in the development of the town, and especially 
interested in school matters, it was largely through his efforts, while a 
school trustee, that the handsome school building was erected. A few 
years later when the Corona Land Association was organized Mr. Brunner 
was chosen president. This was a prosperous organization until the 
panic of 1S7.^, after which real estate was at an ebb for a long time, but 
with the name now changed to Hasbrouck Heights it is again in a 
flourishing condition. 

In 187() Mr. Brunner opened a small jewelry store in the McMain's 
Building in Rutherford, where b\- honest dealing and strict attention to 
business, it can safely be said that he now has the largest, best equipped 
and most modern jewelry establishment in Bergen county. In addition 
to a full line of jewelry, there is also in the rear of the store a private 
optical parlor which is in charge of a graduate optician. This dei)art- 
ment has made rapid strides in the past few years, and many peo])le can 
testify to the care which is taken in fitting the eyes. 

Mr. Brunner has erected a fine brick building at >>{\ Park Avenue 
for his e\er increasing trade. He is ably assisted in the l>usiness by his 
t\yo sons, Robert A. and Ferdinand, Jr. 

KOBKKT A. HK'I-NXlCIv'. 

Rol)ert A. Tjrunner. who was l)orn in Bergen county, March ISd't. 
was educated at the Park Avenue school, Rutherford. 

At the age of sixteen years he was employed by one of the largest 
jewelry firms in New York, an<l a few years later decided to make watch- 
making and optics a study. Since that time he has confined himself 
wholly to these two lines. At one time he was in business for himself 
on Maiden Lane, but owing to tailing health was compelled to lea\e 
New York, when he entered his father's store to assist in his greativ 
increased business. 

Mr. Brunner becoming interested in National Guard affairs, was 
one of the promotors of Company L, Second Regiment, N. G. N. J., in 
1892. After the organization of this company he was elected a sergeant 
and in 1895 was made First Sergeant. In iS'tdhe was elected Second 
Lieutenant and now holds that commission. Upon the breaking out of 
the Spanish-American war he was among the first to \olunteer and 
while in the service was an honest, courteous and hardworking officer. 
Lieutenant Brunner is also secretary and one of the directors of Com- 
pany L Rifle Association, and ablv assisted in building the handsome 
structure now owned by the company. Mr. Brunner is a graduated 
optician associated in business with his father in Rutherford. 



468 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

GEOKCnC F. SCHEKMKKHOKN. 

(ieorufc F. Schermerhorn, t)ne i)f the promoters of Rutherford is a 
descendant of Judg-e Jacob Jansen Schermerhorn, who came to this 
country from Holland in 1640, settled at Fort Orany-e ( now Albany. 
N. Y. ), and purchased a tract of land on the Mohawk River in the vicinity- 
of the present city of Schenectady. Simon ( probably his son ), accord- 
ing- to record lost a son and three negroes, in the massacre and burning 
of that villag-e l)y the P^rench and Indians in 168'», himself being 
wounded. He was the Hrst to give the rejfort of that event to the citi- 
zens of Fort Orang-e. 

During- the Revolution, over sixty of this name appear on the 
roster of New York State troo])s. Cornelius, grandfather of George, 
was engaged in the Naval Ser\ ice during that war and was afterward 
captain in the merchant service, having- an interest in a line of packets 
between New York City and Charleston, S. C. He was also in the ship 
chandlery business in New York city. On an old map of the city, 1728, 
is to be seen "Schermerhorn Wharf," near the foot of Keekman Street. 
(Jeorg-e F., son of James Stewart Schermerhorn, was in the book busi- 
ness for a number of years in New York. Having become a stockholder 
in the Mt. Rutherford Company in 1870, he moved to Rutherford in 1.S72, 
and has resided there to the present time. 

JOSEPH \V. Kl'lUiESS. 

Joseph W. Burgess, Clerk of the Ijorough of Rutherford, is an 
Englishman by birth, the year 1853 being the date of that event. When 
still in infancy his father, Robert Burgess, emigrated to America locat- 
ing in the city of New York where young Burgess received his educa- 
tion. When fourteen years of age his parents located in Rutherford, 
where the father died in 18')(i. For many years the show card Iiusiness 
was carried on in Canal Street, New York, by father and son, the son 
continuing with the father until recent years. Robert Burgess was also 
identitied with the government of the borough of Rutherford having 
been one of its first councilmen when organized. 

Joseph Burgess was made Borough Clerk in 1804 and has held that 
position with credit to himself since that time. By appointment he has 
been Commissioner of the streets and was elected Councilman for one 
term also. He has been Deacon in the Presbyterian Church for the past 
ten years, and is Treasurer of that Board. When in 1875 the Ruther- 
ford Mutual Loan and Building Association was projected, Mr. Burgess 
was active in the formation of that successful organization, and was 
shortly after made its Secretarv. which office he held for seven years 
when he was elected to the position of Treasurer. This office he now 
holds, having been chosen for twelve successive terms. During this 
period, between one and two million dollars have passed through his 
hands, withcmt the loss of a dollar to the Association. It may be said 
that it is to Mr. Burgess' twentv-two years of untiring effort in behalf 
of this association, that its successful career is largely due. He is one 



HISTOKY OK BEKOKN COUNTY 4()9 

of the charter members and was the first treasurer <if the Royal Arca- 
num of Rutherford. He is also treasurer of the Exempt Firemen's 
Association of Rutherford and is in many other ways identified with the 
f^rowth and ])rosj)erity of the I)orou,i;-h. 

lU'NJAMIN VATHS. 

Benjamin Yates, one of the promotors of Rutherford was born in 
the citv of New York in 1831. His parents were Benjamin and Miriam 
( I^e Count) Yates, the father coming- from an ancestry in Nova Scotia, 
the mother being- of Huguenot extraction. Mr. Yates, Sr., was an 
engineering ship builder and died when only thirty-two years ni age, 
during the cholera epidemic in l.S,^2. I'enjamin's early life was spent 
in New York when that citv hardly extended above Twelfth street. 

He attended school in an old building yet standing on Madison 
Street, near Jackson Park, in the old Seventh Ward, and still known as 
School No. 1.^. His old teacher Andrew V. Stout afterwards organized 
the Shoe and Leather Bank, becoming its first president. He also 
organized the Police Department of the city and subsequently became 
Citv Chamberlain. Out of a school <d' about one hundred pu])ils, twelve 
are still living, all prominent men in the \-arious walks of life to-day. 
These old school friends hold annual reunions. Their last meeting was 
in October, 18V7, at Mr. Yates' residence on Orient Way. 

Mr. Yates became an engineering ship builder, learning his tr.ide 
in the Noveltv Iron Works. He worked on the Arctic Shij) which col- 
lided with the French steamer many years ago, a catastro]ihe in which 
so nianv lives were lost. He built a numl)er of vessels which left the 
jx.rt of New York. 

In XSr^T Mr. Yates married Miss Tryi)hena Finch, oi New York, 
and became the father of three children. In 1S(>7 he came to Ruther- 
ford, engaging for a time in the manufacture of iron castings, subse- 
quently becoming a builder; but after erecting alxmt a dozen houses for 
himself he retired from business. 

Mr. Yates is a member of the Methodist Church. 

IIAK'KN K-. II \1x-Ii1-:N. 

Harrv R. Harden, Cashier of tlie Rutherford National Bank, Ruther- 
ford. N. .1., was born in New York city December 2,^, 1S()7. The 
family moved to Westfield, N. J., in 1875, where Harry R. was graduated 
from the public school at the age of fourteen years. After receiving a 
course of instruction at the New Jersey Business College, Newark, N. J., 
he entered the employ of the United States National Bank, New York 
citv at the age of sixteen, and remained in the employof that institution 
for about twelve years. 

Mr. Harden was appointed cashier of theRutherford National Bank, 
May i6, 1895, and opened the Bank for business June 27, 1895. 

CHAKLES EDWAKD WATERS. 

Charles Edward Waters, gold and silver refiner and assayer of New 
York citv, is a son of John and Anna Waters, his father having estab- 



470 HISTOKY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

lisbed this business in lS3't. It is now carried on in the name of John 
Waters" Son. Mr. Waters was born in New York city, Aiig-ust 4, 184(i, 
and was educated in his native city, afterward completing' a course of 
instruction in the Commercial College at Aliddletown, Connecticut. He 
is a man of character and dignity, taking high rank in social circles, 
and other places in which he is called to act. 

On January 7, 1874, he enlisted in Company A, 23d Regiment, N. 
G., State of New York, in Brooklyn, and was elected Corporal March 
1, 1875; elected Sergeant May 15, 1876, 1st Sergeant August 7, 1S7S; 
1st Lieutenant May 6, 1879; Captain March 4, 1880, and Major April 1"», 
1SS(). On June 20, 1892, Major Waters was honorably discharged, ha\- 
ing missed but three roll calls during his term of service. 

During his residence in Brooklyn, he was a member of all the lead- 
ing social Clubs, of that city; the Oxford Club, Union League Club and 
Marine and Field Club at Bath Beach. Since his removal to Ruther- 
ford, he has become a member of Union Clul), the most prominent social 
organization of that locality. Major Waters' wife was Miss Belle F. 
Keeney of Hartford, Connecticut. 

Kiev. WILLIAM WICKHAM CASK. 

Rev. William Wickham Case, son of Rev. John B. Case and Eliza- 
beth Wickham, is a native of New Jersey, born at Perth Amboy August 
M). 18.^'), and was graduated from Bucknell University, Lewisburg, 
Pennsylvania, July, 1S(>,t. His first charge was at Chestnut Hill, Phil- 
adelphia, following which were New London, Connecticut, and other 
places. Mr. Case served at Hamilton Square, N. J., ten years and was 
at Holmdel, N. J., for a period of twelve years. In 1S')(, he came from 
Hoboken to Rutherford where he is located at this time. 

CHARLES K. SOLEY. 

Mr. Charles R. Solev, is a native of New Jersey, born at Lyndhurst 
forty-three years ago. He began business as contractor and builder, in 
1878. Eventually he improved his fortunes by launching out in the 
broader rield of steam sawing, moulding, turning, &c. Experience had 
taught him the wants of the trade, and the necessity of good and well 
manufactured material, in carrying out specifications in detail. In 
1890, Mr. Solcy built his factory in Rutherford, N. J., where he carries 
a heavv and varied stock, and is able to till orders without delay. Mr. 
Solev is prepared to furnish any article in wood or glass, in the con- 
struction of a house. He is serving his second term as freeholder ; was 
a member of council one term; and takes an active interest in the hre 
department of the borough, having acted as its chief for several years. 

lanVAKD W. DEAX. 

Thirty-one years ago, Mr. Edward W. Dean, a New Euglander by 
birth, and a Bt)stonian Ijv education and prestige, changed his residence 
from New York city, to Rutherford. N. J., where he has been recog- 
nized as a leading factor, in the growth and develojmient of that little 
city. His father, Christopher C. Dean, was a well known jjublisher of 



HISTOKY OK BKKC.KN COUNTY 4/1 

reliifioiis books, in Boston. His mother's maiden name was Martha W. 
Peck, both families being- well known throughout the country gener- 
allY. Mr. Kdward W. Dean, the subject of this sketch, inheriting- the 
literary tendencies of his progenitors was prepared for colleg-e at Phil- 
lips Academy, Andover, Mass., but failing- health necessitated his enter- 
ing; at once upon a business career, which now, at the age of sixty-nine 
years, can be reviewed with a feeling-, somewhat akin to pride. In 
Boston Mr. Dean became associated as partner, with Stoddard, Lover- 
ing & Co., importers, and in lS()fi, he came to New York city, and 
opened a branch store, where a large business was carried on till 1S87, 
when he retired, the iirm going out of existence. Mr. Dean's wife was 
Miss Sallie B. Emerson of Cincinnati, Ohio, whom he married Novem- 
ber 1, 1859. In 1867, ground was bought, and building begun for the 
new home in Rutherford. The house which is on the plan of an English 
cottage with commodious apartments and all the appointments of a 
comfortable home including gas and water, was erected at a time when 
Rutherford had no public water or gas. It was named "The Deanery," 
and completed in lS(i<S, when the family took possession. The death of 
Mrs. Dean in December of 1893, left a vacancy in the beautiful home, 
which can never be filled. Mr. Dean has been prominently identified 
with church work, in connection with the Presbyterian church of 
Rutherford, and superintended the building of their elegant church 
edifice. He has been a leading citizen in all public improvements and 
affairs in the little city. Mr. Dean has tra\-eled extensively in many 
lands. 

JIAJOK KICHAKD .-ALLISON. 

The first ancestor of the Allison family in America was Lawrence, 
who is supposed to have emigrated to this country with Robert Win- 
throp and Sir Richard Saltonthal in 1630. In direct line from him came 
John, John second, and following him Joseph, the great-grandfather of 
the present Richard. Joseph married Elizabeth Benson, and their son, 
Richard, married Eliza Ruckel. Mr. Allison's parents were Michael 
Allison and Susan Gentil, whose home was in New York city where 
Richard was born Julv 7, 183S. After receiving his education in the 
public schools of New York, he immediately entered upon a business 
career, acting as clerk for John W. Ouincy at 98 William street from 
1853 to 1861. When the war broke out Mr. Allison joined the Seventh 
Regiment N. G. I., N. Y., April 19, 1861, and was made Captain in the 
127th New York Volunteers in 1862, serving during the war. He made 
an enviable record in the army and after the surrender, he was made 
Provost Marshal of Charleston and commanded the "Boat Infantry" in 
Charleston Harbor during the siege. He was further honored by being 
made Inspector General, of the Northern District of the South. Upon 
his return at the close of the war Mr. Allison was elected a captain in 
the Seventh Regiment, N. (i. I., N. Y., serving fifteen years and was 
then elected Major, after which he resigned upon the completion of 
twenty-five years of service. 



472 HISTOKY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

Major Allison is a progressive mart along all liiies which tend to 
high citizenship, culture and refinement, and to the best growth and 
development of his borough. He was president of the Rutherford 
Improvement Association out of which grew the Borough of Ruther- 
ford; president of the Protective Association, and active in all public 
and social events. Mr. Allison is a member of Union Club and nearly 
all the clubs or associations leading up to the promotion of Union Club. 

Mr. Allison's wife was Miss Mary A. Love. His brother, Thomas 
Allison holds a judgeship in New York city. 

While in command of the Boat Infautr}-, in Charleston Harbor, 
with three boats he made on August 2, 1864, a reconnoissance of Fort 
Sumter, which General Foster formally acknowledged as follows: 
Headquarters, Department of the South, Hilton Head, S. C, August 
6th, 1864. 

"The Major General commanding, desires to express his thanks to 
the officers and men who made the reconnoissance of Fort Sumter on the 
night of the second of August and is much pleased with their energy in 
the enterprise." Signed, Thomas J. Robinson, A. A. A. G. 

MK. COOK CONKLING. 

The Conkliug family came to America from Staffordshire, England, 
in 1639. Ananias Conkling, the first of the name to come to this country 
settled in Salem, removing with his brother John to East Hampton, L. 
I., where he married Mary Gardiner, daughter of Lyon Gardiner, of 
Gardiner's Island, near Moutauk Point. Many of the descendants of 
Mr. Conkling are still residents of that part of Long Island, although 
others, among them Alfred, the father of Roscoe Conkling, have removed 
to other parts of the state of New York. About forty-two years ago, 
Calvin B. Conkling the father of Cook, removed from Sag Harbor to 
the farm in Morris county. New Jersey, where he still lives. It was 
upon this farm, near Stanhope, that Cook Conkling was born, Novem- 
ber 4, 1858. Mr. Conkling's mother was Harriet A. W. King, daughter 
of Silas D. King, Silas D., being a son of John Phcenix King. 

The paternal grandmother of Mr. Conkling was descended from 
the Cooks of Lancastershire, England, who became famous as merchants 
and shipowners. She was a relative of Aaron Burr. 

Mr. Conkling was educated in Stanhope, N. J., public school and 
prepared for college at Stouten bourgh's Latin School at Schooley's 
Mountain Springs, N. J. Afterward at Mount Union College, Ohio. 
After leaving college he taught school for three years, following which 
he travelled in a business capacity through the United States and 
Canada. In 1888 he formed a partnership with Addison Ely and in 1898 
a new partnership was entered into with Luther Shafer, Mr. Conkling 
being admited to the bar, in November of this year, continuing practice 
as Shafer & Conkling. Mr. Conkling has resided in Rutherford since 
1888, ccraducting a private banking business and reading law. In 1.S9.S, 
he procured the organization of the Rutherford National Bank, was 



IIISTdKV OK KEKCEN COUNTY 473 

elected Justice of the Peace in 1897, and is now devoting- all his time to 
the ])ractice of law in connection with farminij i>n a larg-e scale. 

MK. HHTICK H. KIP 

Peter H. Kip is a descendant of Rueloff De Kyjx', who distinguished 
himself in the war waged against the Huguenots in the l(>th century by 
Catharine De Medicis through her weak son, Charles IX. 

Roeloff, fled to Holland and remained there till iS.-i'), when he 
returned to France and assisted the Duke of Anjou to suhdue the Prot- 
estants. A son of Roeloff, embraced the Protestant faith, however, 
dropped the "De" and became the parent stem of the Kii)p family in 
America. His son was prominent in the organization of the company 
which dispatched Hendrick Hudson to explore the New World, and he 
himself came to New Amsterdam, where the family from the first have 
played an important part in the public life of New York. 

The first to settle in New Jersey was Nicholas, who bought a large 
tract on the Polifiy road in 1865, and became the progenitor of all the 
Kips, now residing in this vicinity. His eldest son Hendrick, in due 
time, bought a large tract of land in that part of Boiling Springs town- 
ship now constituting Rutherf<jrd and built a tine mansion of cut brown- 
stone, which is still standing on the Meadow Road in the borough where 
four generations of the Kips were born. Peter Kip, his son, occupied 
the homestead and married first Clarissa'Marcelus, and after her death 
he married Sail}' Van Iderstine. His children were Henry, Edo, John, 
and Peter, who was the father of the subject of this sketch. 

Mr. Peter H. Kip is a prominent land owner and a director in the 
Rutherford National Bank, He was b:)rn in 1843, in the old homestead 
where he still resides. Mr. Kij) is a man of simple tastes and habits, 
and is unmarried. 

MK. THEODOKE MTEHLINC. 

Mr. Theodore Muehling is a native of Germany, horn in the city of 
Leipzig, January 2, 1843. Coming to America with his parents in 1849, 
the family lived in New York until 1855, when they removed to Carl- 
stadt, N. J. At the age of fifteen years his father apprenticed him to 
a cigar manufacturer in the town, where he continued until the death 
of his employer in 1863, when he succeeded to the business. By dint of 
industry and perseverance, he soon established a flourishing trade and a 
reputation as a manufacturer of fine cigars, and is known as a conscien- 
tious and reliable business man. In 1870, he built the fine brick building 
at the corner of Hackensack and Broad Streets, known as Odd Fellows' 
Hall, he occupving the lower part of the building as a factory, the 
upper being used for lodge purposes. Mr. Muehling is a charter mem- 
ber of the Carlstadt Fire Department, organized in 1872, of Wieland 
Lodge I. O. O. F., organized in 1879, and of William Tell Council O. 
C. F., orgfanized in 1886. He has also been an active worker for many 
years in other fields of labor, which have for their object the advance- 
ment of our youths both mentally and physically. He has served on 



474 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

the Board of Trustees several terms, on the Township Committee and 
Board of Chosen Freeholders. Mr. Muehling has been an active tire- 
man ever since the first org-anization, and was Fire Commissioner nearlv 
as long. He was also a trustee of the public schools for many years. 
Mr. Muehling moved his business to Rutherford in 1893, where he built 
the handsome brick building which he occupies, and now resides in 
Rutherford. He employs eight hands, while he looks after the sale of 
his goods himself. He is thorough master of all the details of the manu- 
facturing part nf the business as well as the selling part. 

E.VST KUTHEKFOKD. 

That portion of the old township of Union, known as East Ruther- 
ford, after the organization of the borough of Rutherford, became in- 
corporated by an act of the Legislature in April, 1899, under the name 
of " Boiling Springs Township." 

The hrst election was held May 1st of that year, and was as follows: 
Judge of Elections, William Begnell; Inspector of Elections, James 
Talbot. David Taylor; Township Clerk, Luther M. Axford; Assessor, 
Peter J. Post; Collector, Edward A. Jeanneret; Chosen Freeholder, 
Louis Lane; Township Committee, Louis H. Beck. William Sanders, 
Joseph Huber; Overseer of the Poor, William Conirie; Commissioner 
of Appeals, Jules Ducommun, Theodore Wood, John V. S. Van Winkle; 
Surveyor of Highways, George Stettler, Henry Bachmann; Justice of 
the Peace, Edward J. Sutton, Charles E. Griffith; Cimstables, L. B. 
Van Alstyne, Henry Uuintle, Paul Jeanneret; Pound Keepers, John 
Tuma, Louis Handel, John Miller. 

Township Purposes, S8(U); Township Roads, $900; Poor Purposes, 
S50; Fall and Spring Elections. No. 3. Engine House. 

In March, 1891, Mr. Axford was succeeded by W. H. Taylor, who 
has held that office both for the township and borough, virtually, since 
that time. During a portion of the months of April and May, 1894, P. 
B. Spencer Hodges was clerk of the borough, and Luther Shafer has 
been the only counsel for these two corporations. 

The election of Borough officers, for East Rutherford, took place. 
April 17, 1894, Theodore G. Hoster, serving as Mayor until released by 
William McKenzie in May following who has filled that office to the 
present time. 

On May 23, 1893, the last meeting of the Committee for Boiling 
Springs township was held, for the purpose of closing uj) the township 
business and for making transfer of - all properties to the borough 
c)fficers. 

The officers of the borough for the year 1897 were as follows: 
Mayor, William McKenzie; President of Council, William Gramlich; 
Councilmen, James P. Edwards, Charles Uhl, Charles Albertine, J. V. 
S. Van Winkle, John F. Randolph; Clerk, William H. Taylor; Assessor, 
Henry Bachmann; Collector, Edward A. Jeanneret; Counsel, Luther 
Shafer; Recorder, James A. Morgan; Engineers, Wise and Watson. 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 



475 



THIC ]':AST lU'THlUvl'OKD LOAN AND BUILDING A.SSOCL\TION. 

This institution with its several advantag-eous features has become 
one of the useful organizations for the poor men of this borough. It owes 
its })romotion to a number of citizensof East Rutherford and vicinity who 
in a public spirited manner incorporated for business in 18')5. Among those 
who were the first to promote this enterprise should be mentioned the 
names of William McKenzie, president of the Company from the lirst; 
E. A. Jeanueret, first vice j)resident; Rudolph Uannheim, second vice 
president; William Fleming, Sr. secretary; J. F. Randolph, William II. 
Taylor, E. H. Turner, Theodore Wood and Charlotte Cooper, all of 
whom be-long to the Board of Directors at the present time. 

One of the useful features connected with this association is its 
Juvenile Sa\ings Bank. The liabilities to the association from this 




EAST Kt'THKKl-f>KI) SCHOOL 



source alone during the last year amounted to S1158.88. The number 
of shareholders belonging to the association is two hundred and sixty- 
two, total liabilities 874,794.80 and net profits for 1898 S4,764.15. 

CHUKCHES. 

The Methodists erected a building for Worship in East Rutherford 
in 189,S. The Rev. Mr. Hubach was the first pastor. The congrega- 
tion is constantly increasing, and a flourishing church is in prospect. 
There is also a gospel Mission here which is a branch of the Passaic 
Mission Church Society, Rev. James R. Morris in pastoral charge. Be- 
sides a flourishing Sunday School, the Mission, though small in mem- 
bership, exercises the influence and does a work creditable to a good 



476 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

sized church orij-atiization. It was this mission that sent one hundred 
Testaments to Company L at Sea Girt, N. J. 

WILLIAM m'kEN'ZIE. 

William McKenzie, May(^rof East Rutherford borouii^h, was born in 
Glasg-ow, Scotland, on August 22, 1841. From a boy the business of 
cotton bleaching possessed a strong attraction for him, and he was 
already proficient in the art when, in 1866, he came to the United States. 
In Norwicli, Conn., and in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, he followed the 
business, winning a high reputation as superintendent in a large con- 
cern. With the natural energy of an active man, Mr. McKenzie con- 
stantly sought opportunities of improving his position, and in 1885 he 
took advantage of the opening which has resulted in his becoming so 
largely interested in East Rutherford and Bergen county. 

Standing alongside the Erie Railway track at Carlton Hill at that 
time was a large brick building which had become known in the neigh- 
borhood as a white elephant. A cotton bleachery had been established 
their fifty years ago, and its record had been one of ruin for the men 
who put their money into the enterprise. Mr. McKenzie, whose knowl- 
edge of the business was accurate, and who was sanguine of success 
under the right conditions, interested John Ward, a wholesale jeweler, 
in a plan for starting up the works ; the place, including machinery 
which had lain idle for years, was bought and the wonderfully success- 
ful career of the Standard Bleachery, with a reputation for fine work as 
wide as the continent, began. Obstacles which appeared to be insur- 
mountable were overcome, and success was fairly forced from apparent 
failure by the indomitabe energy and enterprise of Mr. McKenzie. 
This to-day is one of the most important industries in Bergen county, 
and gives employment to nearly- 500 people. 

Like many men deeply immersed in business cares, Mr. McKenzie 
reached middle age before taking any active part in public atfairs. 
When the call came for him to take a part in the government of his 
town, which was then Boiling Springs township, he reluctantly con- 
sented, and served two terms as chairman of the Township Committee. 
His judicial temperament and unvarying fairness quickly made for him 
a name which went far beyond the confines of his town, and strong 
pressure was brought to bear to induce him to run on the Republican 
ticket for Assemblyman in 1892. This was the year of the Democratic 
tidal wave, and Mr. McKenzie was defeated; nevertheless, he headed 
the ticket, and was beaten by a margin so small that his prestige was 
greatly increased, in a county hitherto always Democratic. 

Mr. McKenzie was still chairman of the Township Committee when 
the movement began which resulted in the changing of Boiling Springs 
township into East Rutherford borough. The success of the movement 
was largely due to him, and he became the first Mayor of the borough. 
His entrance into the office was marked by a stirring incident, the local 
election board having unwittingly counted him out in favor of another 



HISTORY OF BHKGEN COUNTY 479 

man. An ai)pcal to Judge Dixon, however, led to a recount, and he 
was seated. In 18')7 he was elected for the third time, and he had no 
opposition. 

For many years Mr. McKenzie had served as a member of the Ber- 
yen County Republican Executive Committee, and his marked services 
to the party were recog'nized this year by his election as chairman of 
the committee, to succeed Judge D. D. Zabriskie. He is also vice presi- 
dent for the Fifth Congressional District of the Republican State League. 

Recognizing- the need of some association to set forth the advan- 
tages of Rutherford and its neighborhood, Mr. McKenzie last year took 
an active part in forming the Rutherford and East Rutherford Board of 
Trade, of which he was chosen president, a place which he now holds. 
He has just been re-elected vice president of the Rutherford Public 
Library Association. He is a director in the Rutherford National Bank, 
of which institution he was one of the founders. 

Being a strong believer in the maxim that "a penny saved is a 
penny earned," Mr. McKenzie has for years been interested in loan and 
building associations, being a pronounced advocate of local associa- 
tions. Three years ago he was one of the active organizers of the East 
Rutherford Savings, Loan and Building Association, of which he ac- 
cepted the presidency, which he still holds, and the remarkable progress 
of the young association has been due largely to his interest and to the 
prestige which his name bestowed upon it. He is a Governor of the 
Passaic Hospital, and, in addition to being President of the Standard 
Bleachery Company, holds the presidency of a Paper Manufacturing 
Company. He is a member of the Royal Arcanum and of the Union 
Clul) of Rutherford. 

Mr. McKenzie lives in a handsome residence at Carlton Hill, sur- 
rounded by acres of grounds, and located near the bleachery. He is 
married and has four sons and a daughter. His eldest son, James J. 
McKenzie, is actively connected with the management of the Bleachery, 
and his third son is a student in a textile college at Philadelphia. His 
only daughter is married and lives near Boston, Mass. 

Mr. McKenzie is a man of sanguine temperament; level-headed, warm- 
hearted and true; a !--taunch friend and a manly foe. A deep interest in 
all that tends toward the uplifting of his community has been marked 
bv many unostentatious deeds of generosity on his part; but no man can 
be sterner toward an unworthy cause. A mental habit of looking diffi- 
culties squarely in the face makes him a tower of strength in trouble; 
and his advice is constantly sought by thcise who know his absolute 
integrity. A certain sturdy independence of manner and an insistence 
upon his rights have combined to attract toward him a circle of friends 
whose entire confidence in him is at once a tribute and a sign of proper 
appreciation of his worth. His tine mental fibre has been shown in 
every positiim of trust which has been given to him, and a deep strain 
of reverence in his nature lor what is grand and ennobling has left its 
impress on his life. He ])ossesses a rare sym])athy for those who are 



480 inSTOKY OF KKKOKN COUNTY 

engaged in the battle of life against odds, and enjoys that faculty of 
discernment which permits him to guage accurately the motives of men. 
Of an intrepid nature himself, he appreciates courage in others, and has 
all that catholicity of view which enables men to judge their fellows 
leniently. While a lover of peace Mr. McKenzie never avoids a conflict 
where a question of principle is involved. His rapid business advance- 
ment has, in no instance, been accomplished to the detriment of others, 
and no ruins mark the path that he has trod. He is an illustration of what 
a sound head and a willing heart can accomplish, when united with the 
other sterling attributes of an upright man, and his prosperity to-day 
awakens nothing but satisfaction in the minds of those who know him, 
for no man's sorrow has contributed thereto, and no man is the jxiorer 
because of his splendid rise. 

MK. JOHN J. DUPUV. 

Mr. John J. Dupuy. proprietor of the HoiTman House, and a well 
known official in municipal and county affairs, passed his early days in 
the busy city of New York, where he was born August 6, 1855. At the 
age of thirteen years he left school and since that time his life has been 
a busy one. 

In 1876, he came to Rutherford, where he was employed in a watch 
case factory for five years. In 1881, he opened a store which he con- 
ducted till 1886. During this time he began in a small way to manu- 
facture base balls and other sporting goods, eventually becoming very 
successful in this business. His factory was in Rutherford and his 
salesroom at 'No. 112 Chambers Street, New York. At one time he had 
in all nearly one hundred hands employed and in one season manufac- 
tured 365,000 dozen balls. He conducted this business and at the same 
time a dry goods store in Rutherford, until the panic of 1893 caused 
him to relinquish both enterprises. 

As an official Mr. Dupuy's career has beeen successful also. He 
served the borough of Rutherford, first, in the capacity of constable 
from 1880 to 1885, was Town Collector from 1886 to 1888, the only Demo- 
crat elected on that ticket. He was Coroner from 1887, to 1889, running 
ahead of his ticket in that election. It was during his incumbency the 
inquest was held over the remains of Sherff Demarest who was killed at 
the Erie crossing. 

Mr. Dupuy was elected Justice of the Peace in 1882, serving five 
years, and again elected in 1893. In 1891, he was elected Assemblyman 
from the second Assembly District, and re-elected the following year. 
He is Chief of the State Detective Bureau, and has been prominent, in 
fire circles — having served in the department as foreman, chief and 
president of the organization. 

Mr. Du])uy is also a member of the Boiling Spring Lodge, No. 152, 
F. and A. M.; Rutherford Lodge, No. 240, I. O. O. F.; Passaic Lodge, 
No. 387, B. P. O. Elks; Rutherford Lodge, No. 42, Foresters of 
America; Rutherford Council Royal Arcanum; United F'riends Council 
and other social organizations. 




JOHN J. DUPUY 




PETER J. POST 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY ' 483 

PETEK J. POST. 

Peter J. Post, a resident of East Rutherford from 1875 till his 
(leatJi, was a prominent business man in New York for over fifty years. 
He was born in Rockland county, N. Y., in 1821. When a youth he 
went to Ne-v?' York and learned the clothiers' trade, subsequently going 
into business for himself at Eighth Avenue and Twentieth Street, where 
he remained twenty-five years. He then joined his brother of the firm 
of A. J. Post & Son and carried on business with them at two places in 
the city for twenty years or more. In 1875 Mr. Post purchased prop- 
erty in Rutherford where he remained until removed by death. From 
1875 till 1884 he was a commuter, at which time he retired from active 
pursuits. In 1S43 he married his first wife Miss Caroline Canfield, and 
after four children were born of this union she died. The children are 
all dead also. His second wife, who was Miss Elizabeth A. Owens, 
survives him. She was born in Bangor, North Wales, and was married 
at the home of her uncle, James Loyd, in Sullivan county, N. Y. She 
is a Christian woman, highly respected by all who know her. Mr. Post 
was a religious man and greatly devoted to his church. He was a life 
member of the American Institute Missionary Society, and belonged to 
the Baptist Church in Sixteenth Street, New York. He was a Free 
Mason, also. Mr. Post is missed the most in his home, for those who 
knew him best loved him most. He died in IS"^)?, and was buried by 
Stephen Merrit, his intimate friend, who also buried General Grant, 
Bishop Simpson and other persons of note. He was buried in Green- 
wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, N. Y. 

JOHN F. RANDOLPH. 

The earliest paternal ancestors of the Randolph family in America, 
of which we have a record, was Basil F., born in Virginia. His son. 
Justice F., was born in Elizabeth, N. J., and was the father of Absalom 
Fitz Randolph, also a native of Elizabeth, and the grandfather of our 
subject. Edwin Fitz Randolph the father of John F., was born in 
Jersey City, November 9, 1812. He married Hannah Goetchius, of 
Paterson, a grand-daughter of Rev. Henry Goetchius a Dutch Reformed 
minister of early days. They had ten children, two boys and eight girls. 

Of these children John Fitz, was born at Lodi, January 31, 1857, 
and was educated in the public schools of Rutherford. After leaving 
school Mr. Randolph turned his attention to the nursery business and 
horticulture, and since 1872, has devoted his energies to this line of 
trade. His nurseries and greenhouses are located in East Rutherford, 
where he has built up a successful and growing industry. 

Mr. Randolph's military record covers a period of five years in Com- 
pany L, Second Regiment. New Jersey Volunteers. He served a term 
of two years as member of Township Committee and three years as bor- 
ough Councilman. He has been a trustee of the Wesleyan Methodist 
Episcopal Church since its organization ; was for thirteen years a fireman 
and for fifteen years belonged to the order of United Friends, in addi- 



4g4 ■ HISTORY OK BEKGEN COUNTY 



tion to several other clubs and organizations of minor importance. 

Mr. Randolph was married May 15. 1890, to Miss Mary Emma 
Ostendorff, daughter of Louis H. Ostendorff of Hoboken. 

.\KTHUK ANDEKS. 

Arthur Anders in real estate and insurance business in East Ruther- 
ford is a native of Berlin, Germany, and was born July 22, i859. 

Mr Anders acquired his education in his native country, first m the 
public schools, following this by a High School course. In preparation 
for a business life, Mr. Anders immediately entered a business college 
in Berlin, and after completing the prescribed course of instruction, 
began his career bv spending three years in commercial business in that 
city After coming to America, in 1884, he occupied various positions 
in New York business houses, beginning at a small salary, but building 
up until in 1890, his accumulations enabled him to come to East Ruther- 
ford and purchase property. , -, • •. 
After establishing a general agency business, he continued in it 
until 1897 when he turned his attention wholly to real estate and insur- 
ance in which he has been successful. Mr. Anders takes pride in doing 
his share toward the development of his village, and the vicinity. He 
or<ranized a Board for the Metropolitan Savings and Loan Association, a 
prosperous organization of Newark, N. J., which is of great benefit to 
those who have a small income. 

Mr Anders married Miss Margaret Mutter, of Berlin, Germany. 
He is a progressive man in every sense of the word, having taken ad- 
vantage of all the privileges of an American by acquiring his citizen- 
ship in 1890. 

JAMES A. MORGAN. 

James A Morgan, Recorder for the borough of East Rutherford, is 
a native of England, born in 1846. In 1847 his father emigrated to 
this country, where James received his education in the public schools 
of New York city. Subsequently he went to Franklin Grove in Illinois. 
In 1861 he enlisted in a New York Regiment volunteers, and served in 
the army until honorably discharged in June, 1865. After a visit to 
England in 1866, he followed his trade of marble cutter, coming into 
the employ of S. Klauber & Co., eventually working tor them from 18/.^ 

to 1897. , , , • ,wi, f 

In 1871 he married Miss Kate Corrigan, who has shared in all that 
has made his social and business relations successful in the home of his 
adoption. Judge Morgan was elected Justice of the Peace m the Spring 
of 1896, and was appointed Borough Recorder in the Spring of 189/. 
He is manager of the Thespian Institute of Carlstadt, which organiza- 
ti.m he effected in December, 1897. He is a member of the Odd i ellows, 
belongs to the Army of the Republic, and is an esteemed citizen ot 
Bergen county. 

LOUIS BECK. 

Louis Beck of East Rutherford, N. J., is a man of varied an.l wide 
experience. He was born at Homburg, Germany, February 1. 184... and 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 485 

is of pure German descent by both paternal and maternal lines. He was 
educated in the public schools of his native country, going to sea when 
but fourteen years of age and remaining until his twentieth year. The 
last two years of this time he was Quartermaster in the service of the 
Pacific Mail Steamship Company, and before that in the Anchor and 
Allen Line, and also in the American, Bremen and Brazilian Lines. 
In 1861, when fifteen years of age, he came to America, entering 
as cabin boy on the Vanderbilt line of steamers, "Northern Light," 
but had to leave after a few trips to Aspinwall on account of 
being sick with fever. In 1865 he left the service coming from Liver- 
pool to New York in the steamer St. David of the Allen Line, which 
was thirty-three days making the trip. He then began work as a 
painter remaining with one man nine and one-half years. He came to 
Rutherford in 1871, and has seen the place grow from nothing to its 
present rather prosperous proportions. In 1877, he opened business on 
his own account, and in 18*J2. started in the building and contracting 
business. 

Mr. Beck is a public spirited citizen, is president of the Union town- 
ship committee and Board of school trustees in District No. 40 '2. He 
belongs to the " Order of United Friends," the- "Fraternal League," 
and the "Odd Fellows." Is a member of the German Presbyterian 
Church. His wife is also German; she was Miss Caroline Greyner. 

CHAKI.ES DANIEL BKOOKS, M. D. 

Among the prominent physicians of the county, having a large 
practice, may be mentioned Dr. Brooks, of East Rutherford. He was 
born near St. Paul, Minnesota, thirty years ago and spent the first nine- 
teen years of his life on his father's farm. Having natural inclinations 
to the study of medicine, he began a course in that science before leav- 
ing his early home. His educational career began in the public school, 
which in time was supplemented by special courses on subjects looking 
towards the profession he intended to espouse. In time he was gradu- 
ated from Bellevue Medical College, New York, taking his degree from 
that institution. He also completed a course of instruction in the New 
York Midwifery Dispensary, April 6, 1842, and on January 22, 1S'»4, 
passed the examination by the State Board of Medical Examiners, at 
Trenton, N. J. Dr. Brooks is a brother of Dr. Harry H. Brooks, a pro- 
fessor in Bellevue College, New York, who is also one of the visiting 
physicians at Sing Sing, on expert cases, for testimony. 

THEODOKE WOOD. 

Theodore Wood, a citizen of East Rutherford since 1870, and one of 
the original councilmen of that borough is a native of New York city, 
and was born in 1840. He is the son of John and Maria Wood, both de- 
scendants of old New Jersey families, members of the old Holland Church. 
Having received a good education in the public schools of New York, 
Mr. Wood learned the trade of bookbinding, taking up the work in the 
employ of Beatty& Stevenson, with whom he remained thirty-five years. 



486 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

the last ten years of which, as a member of the firm. In i890 he estab- 
lished himself in business on Dutch street, New York, where he still 
remains as the head of the firm of Wood & Salter, binders and manu- 
facturer of blank books. The firm employ from fifteen to twenty hands 
constantly, and do a large business. In 1865 Mr. Wood was married to 
Miss Mary E. Rodman of New York, and in 1870 thev moved to East 
Rutherford. They have four children. Mr. W^xxl has been a member 
of the Masonic Lodge for thirty years. 

JAMES p. EDWAKDS. 

James p. Edwards, son of James B. Edwards, a former wholesale 
drug dealer of Jersey City, was born in Morrisania in 1862. W^hen four 
years of age his father removed to Jersey City, where he lived the 
remainder of his life dying in 1881. James P. was brought up in that 
city coming to Boiling Springs in 1886. He then bought property and 
built several houses. In 1888 when a vacancy occurred in the Town- 
ship Committee the office was tendered him which he declined, but three 
years later he appeared as an independent candidate and was elected 
over two other regular party nominees. He has been councilman in East 
Rutherford for eight years. 

Mr. Edwards is of English descent. His grandfather Major John 
Edwards of Paterson was born in the town of Trowbridge, Vv'iltshire, 
England, October 14, 1808, and came to this country when but fourteen 
years of age. Making his way to Paterson, he learned the trade of 
machinist, finally becoming a member of the firm of Danforth & Cooke 
Locomotive Works, from which he retired with a comfortable fortune to 
spend his last days in peace and rest. Our subject is a progressive 
citizen in the best sense, and looks to the interest of his borough. In 
1893 he built his own residence, where he now lives, enjoying the con- 
fidence and respect of all. 

JACOB H. VKEELAND. 

Mr. Vreeland's ancestors came from Amsterdam, Holland, and set- 
tled in Bergen county at a very early date. The old homestead is on the 
Polifly road, the site of which is now Hasbrouck Heights. His grand- 
father, Abraham Vreeland was an officer in the Revolutionary war, his 
grandmother drawing a pension until her death which occurred in 1856. 
Mr. Vreeland was educated in the public schools of his native place, and 
in a private high school at West Hoboken. Upon leaving his father's 
farm at sixteen years of age he became apprenticed to the firm of Hogg 
& Delameter, marine machinists, located at the foot of Thirteenth 
Street, New Y''ork city. After serving his full time a position was 
immediately offered him as assistant engineer in the Russian Navy, 
which he declined. 

In 1861 Mr. Vreeland removed to West Hoboken and in 1863 he was 
elected a member of the Township Committee and by them was made 
president of the Board. Returning to Boiling Springs ( now Rutherford ) 
in 1865 he was elected president of the township committee, serving two 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 4S7 

terms. He was also school trustee for fourteen years, being' president of 
the board of trustee^ for a ^leriod of ten years, and was collector of the 
town three 3'ears. 

While serving- the public he was not neglecting his own interests, 
being the inventor of a "Patented Hydraulic Jack," for removing and 
replacing locomotive drivers without disturbing the height of the 
engine. This device is in use on all the prominent roads in the United 
States, Canada and Mexico. 

In 1864 and part of lS(i5> he was em.ployed by Commodore Stevens 
of Hoboken, superintending- his machine shops. At this time he was 
offered a situation with the Erie Railroad Company at Jersey City. He 
accepted a position as foreman, soon after becoming general foreman, 
and later master mechanic of the Eastern division and all its branches, 
including the care of about three hundred locomotives, and a fleet of 
ferr}' and tugboats. He remained with the company until ISSS. 

Mr. Vreeland married Miss Frances Ferritt whose ancestors are of 
the Morgan family of Connecticut. He is a member of the Masonic 
fraternity, having been Master three successive terms. In his religious 
connections he is a member of Grace Episcopal Church of Rutherford. 
He is a son of Lawrence and Mary ( Smith ) Vreeland, his grand- 
parents being Abraham Vreeland and Rachel Ackerman. He was Ixirn 
in Bergen county, August 16, 1834. 

ADOLPH (;UHL. 

Adolph (iuhl, wagon manufacturer and general blacksmith, was 
horn in Wurtemberg, Germany, March 11, i850, where he learned the 
trade of wheelwright with his father. He came to New York in 1873, 
and the year following to Carlstadt, where he worked three j'ears as a 
hired hand. In i87S he started business for himself, but after two years 
he again began working for wages remaining in his position until 189f>, 
when he built his present brick shop. Since that time he has been 
manufacturing wagons and doing all kinds of blacksmithing, employing- 
at times a dozen or more hands. In 1879 he was married to Miss Freda 
Guckelberger, and in 1882 purchased his present residence. Mr. Guhl 
belongs to the I. (). O. F. and the Foresters. 

EDWARD A. JKANXEKET. 

Edward A. Jeanneret is of Huguenot e.xtraction born in Locle, 
Switzerland, in 1840. His father August Jeanneret, was a manufac- 
turer of watches and lived for a time in St. Petersburg, where he mar- 
ried Amelia Walter in 1836. Her father was a Polander. She is still 
living and is now ninety-four years old. In 1859 Mr. Jeanneret came to 
America, and in 1872 located in Rutherford, N. J. He died in 1882. 

Edward Jeanneret learned the trade of manufacturing watches in 
Switzerland and worked at his trade for a time in New York. In 1867, 
he married Juliet Guinand whose father was an old watch case manu- 
facturer in New York for many years, and when he died in 1881 Mr. 
Jeanneret succeeded to the business. 



488 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

In 1885 his brother, Paul Jeanneret, who had been with him for a 
time, succeeded as sole owner. The brothers were successful manu- 
facturers and often employed twenty-five and thirty men. Mr. Edward 
Jeanneret came to East Rutherford in 1870, and has been in the real 
estate business ever since. Soon after coming here he was made Tax 
Collector and still holds that office. He is vice president of the East 
Rutherford Building and Loan Association and has been president of 
the Fishing and Gun Club since August 1888. His wife died in 1805. 

VALENTINE GKAMLICH. 

Valentine Gramlich was resident here since 1853, is a native of 
Baden, Germany, and was born August 1, 1830. He came to this 
country in the William Tell in 1853. In 1856 he built the first five houses 
in Carlstadt for the German Land Association. In 1863 he began busi- 
ness in coal and wood and during that same year married Miss Mina 
Hobe. They have five sons and one daughter, 

William Gramlich, the eldest son is president of the Borough 
Council, having been a member of that body since 1893, and chairman 
of the Board since 1895, He has been in charge of the Station on the 
Erie Railroad at Carlstadt for many years. 

WILLIAM ]•;. VOI.MEK. 

William E. Volmcr, florist, conducts a profital)le trade in flowers on 
the Paterson Plank R(jad, East Rutherford, N. J. He was born in 
Brunswick, Germany, in 1856. His early training in the business was 
obtained in the Botanical Gardens of his native town, and a diploma 
conferred upon him in lS9i in testimnnv of his advancement in the 
knowledge of plants and flowers. 

After coming to America in [892, he was in the employ of De 
Forest, at Summit, N. J., four years, in charge of an extensive place, 
the orchids alone numbering 125,000. In 1896 he began business for 
himself on Jersey City Heights, and in 1897 Mr. Volmer bought three 
acres of land, where he is at present located, and has about 10,000 
square feet of this under glass. He enjovs a liberal patronage in his 
new field. 

JA.MES K. TOLESON. 

James R. Toleson was born in Paterson in 1843, and is a son of 
Robert Toleson of that city. He received his education in the public 
schools, after which he was apprenticed to the moulders' trade at the 
Danforth & Cooke Locomotive Works, where he remained until 1861. 
At the age of nineteen he enlisted in the First Regiment of Sickles' 
Brigade (70th N. Y. Volunteers) as a drummer boy. Before he had been 
out a week he exchanged his drum for a gun, and at Chancellorsville was 
promoted to Color Sergeant. Not long after this he was recommended 
by his superior officers for a lieutenancy and papers were forwarded for 
his ])romotion, but on July 2d, at (Gettysburg, he lost an arm, which 



iiisToKV OF bkk(;i';n coi'nty 48'* 

unfitted him for dutv. Upon recovery he w;is placed in charge of the 
jruards at the Jarvis General Hospital in Baltimore, and was subse- 
quently transferred to the Court Martial building- in Washingtcm, where 
he remained until mustere<l out of service after having Iteen in the war 
three years. After Mr. Tnlesun returned to Paterson, he was elected 
Poormaster in iShS, but soon afterward became superintendent for T. 
F'rank Hoxsie at that time one of the leading contractors of the state. 
He remained in this capacity until his removal to Bergen county in 18'«), 
at which time he purchased his present property. He is a prominent 
contractor in this part of the county, and for a i)eri<>d of three years 
filled the office of Freeholder, having been elected nn the Republican 
ticket, defeating both the Democratic and Citizen's candidates. As a 
c(mtractor, Mr. Toleson built the bridge over the Lodi at that village ; 
macadamized Washington Avenue from the river to Kingsland Lane, 
making it one hundred feet wide, and one of the best graded streets of 
the kind in the county. He did similar work <in the other streets. 
including Bloomfield Avenue, Irvington Road and other thoroughfares 
of Rutherford, and has also done extensive work for the Erie Railroad 
Comjjanv. 



CHAPTER XXVII 
RIDGEFEILD TOWNSHIP. 

OKIGINAI. TOWNSHIP — EAKLY SETTLEMENTS — CIVIL LIST — COMPANY E — 

VILLACxES — REVOLUTION AKY INCIDENTS — SCHOOLS — CHURCHES — 

FORT LEE, RIDGEKIELD PARK, COVTESVILLE — BIOCVR APHICAL. 

RIDGEFIELD. 

This township embraced originally the earliest settlements in the 
ancient township of Hackensack, and was the iirst the traveller entered 
in passinuf up the Palisades. The valley of the Hackensack invited set- 
tlers early in the seventeenth century and the valley of the Overpeck 
Creek, a navig'able arm of the Hackensack, also attracted settlers quite 
as earlv in this direction. Overpeck Creek is navigable for small ves- 
sels as far up as the nothern boundary of the township. Originally the 
township of Ridgeiield included the villages of Fairview, Ridgefield, 
Palisades Park, Leonia, Nordhoff, Shady Side, Edgewater, Fort Lee, 
Taylorsville, Coytesville, Ridgelield Park and Bogota, but now 
the boroughs of Undercliff, Palisades Park, Bogota, Leonia, Fair- 
view, Ridgefield and the village of Ridgefield Park and Overpeck 
township have been taken away leaving but a small portion of the 
original town for the present township. The original township 
was bounded on the north by Englewood, on the east by the 
Hudson, on the south by Hudson county — Bellman's Creek forming 
part of the southern boundary line — and on the west by the Hackensack 
River. The southern boundary was less than two miles in extent, the 
nothern less than four, and the length of the township from North to 
South did not exceed four miles. The town was well watered while 
various railroad lines furnished the people with ample facilities for 
travel. 

K'IDGEKIELD TOWNSHIP. 

The earlv settlements of Ridgefield township antedates even the 
organization of Hackensack township in 1<)'I.^, and of the county of 
Bergen in 1675. There seems to have been no town or village com- 
pactly built, like the village of Bergen, but there were settlements both 
of Dutch and English in and about what was subsequently known as Eng- 
lish Neighborhood prior to 1675. The Westervelts, the Zimermanns, the 
Bantas, and the Blauvelts, all coming from Holland, settled in the 
middle of the seventeenth century in that locality. The ancestors of 
Jacob P. Westervelt, now of Hackensack Village, with himself, were 
born in English Neighborhood. His father was born there in 1776, and 
was the son of Christopher Westervelt, who was born there certainly 
as early as 1690. He was the son of the original ancestor of his family, 
who came from Holland and settled on Overpeck Creek, within the pres- 
ent limits of Ridgefield township, probably al)out 1670. 



HISTORY OF BEKOEN COUNTY 4')! 

The earliest iiieiilidii of the name of Westervelt that can be ascer- 
tained in Holland is that of Dirck Van Westervelt, who was born 
between 1475 and 1500, and married into the Van Wenkom family, and 
from them sprang- a large and influential family now living in Holland. 

The earliest settlers bearing- the name in America were Lubbert 
Lubbertson and Willem Van Westervelt, who came from the town of 
Meppel, province of Drenthe, Holland, on the ship "Hoop," in April, 
1(>()2, and settled on Long Island, (as given in other portions of this 
volume). The fact of settlement is established from records, showing 
that a son of Willem purchased in 1()97 considerable property in New 
Utrecht, which he sold in 1708 to Anthony Holsart, and also that Willem 

married Dericke , and lived for some time there, as Dericke Wil- 

lemse Van Westervelt names in her will, her husband, Willem, and also 
her son, Abraham Willemse. whose wife was Margaret. Their children 
were Alltie, l)orn in 1()51; Abraham, lf)53; Willemtie, 1(>54; Femmetie, 
1()58; and Jan, 1(><)0. 

Lubltert Ivubbertson \'an Westervelt had children : Lubbert, born in 
Meppel, and married Belitjc Bouluse, March 4. K.SO; Roelof, also born 
in Meppel in 1(>59. Jumen, Jan. Margrietie, and Maritie were born in 
this country. 

Deeds and papers in possession of their descedants show that the 
Van Westervelts were among the early settlers of old Bergen county, 
as Cornelius, son oi Lubbert, settled at Acquackanonk, and was one of 
the original fourteen patentees who purchased the Acquackanonk patent 
in 1684, containing some thirty thousand acres. He did not remain long 
there, as there is only one conveyance afterwards, and then settled (m 
the other side of the Passaic River, in what is now Bergen county, and 
hence originated the Van Westervelt name here. Like other families 
from Holland when first coming to America, they had no surname, but 
added to their baptismal name the name of the place from whence they 
came in Holland. Hence Jan, from the west oi Holland, — "wast valt," 
a west field, — would be "Jan Wast Valt." or John Westervelt. 

The grandfather of Samuel D. Westervelt lived at the Hopper grist- 
mill. The Hoppers settled in the valley of the Wagzaw in 1711, and 
owned nearly all the land in that section on the Passaic River. 

Of his children, Lucas, the youngest, was born in Pompton, March 
17, 1788, and upon the death of his mother, when he was only seven 
years old, he came to Teaneck, where at the proper age he learned the 
mason's trade. He married Belinda Demarest November 5, 1803, who 
was born November 24, 1784, and died January (>, 1858. After his mar- 
riage he settled at Tenafly, where he built a stone house, in which he 
resided until his death, March 17, 1825. The house was standing in 
1881, and is one of the monuments left of "olden time," and showing 
his chosen occupation. 

His children were Simon. John. Cornelius, Samuel D., Elizabeth, 
Eve, and Ann, wife of Albert Winant, of Hackensack. 



492 HISTOKV OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

Lourens Andriessen Van Buskirk, signifying- "from the church in 
the woods" (sometimes calling himself by the former and sometimes by 
the latter name, and whose name is frequently mentioned in the recital 
of early events in this history) jointly with others purchased, January 
(>. 1()7(), a large tract of land, then known as New Hackensack, upon 
which he resided as early as 1()S8. 

The De Mott family were Huguenots, and settled in English 
Neighborhood in the seventeenth century. Mathias, the ancestor of 
this family was born in France, and settled^ in Bergen county in IdSS. 
His son Jacob was father of John De Mott, who died in 1S32, aged 
eighty-four. Jacob, the father of Jacob J. De Mott, was born March 11. 
1794, and succeeded to the ancestral home on the Tenafiy road. John 
De Mott, son of Jacob, liwvl in E.i^lish Xjighb;)rho:Hl where he carried 
on a saw and grist mill. 

Richard Paulison was descended from an early settler in English 
Neighborhood. He was born October 1, 1773, and lived all of his life 
in the present Ridgefield township and died in 1873, at nearly one hun- 
dred years of age. He w;is the father of Johi R., and other children, 
who have left a large family of descendants, among whom was the late 
Judge Paulison and Paul Paulison. 

Robert Earle, one of the pioneer settlers of Bergen county, located 
in Ridgefield townshi]), and purchased a large tract of land, beginning 
at the North River, from thence to the Hackensack, and running thence 
to Bull's Ferry, from thence to Five Corners (or Bergen), near Fort 
Lee, as early as 1650; and as there were no white inhabitants near Mr. 
Earle, he gave several acres of woodland to a number of white families 
to locate on, with a view nf forming a settlement. The only descendant 
of which there is anv knowledge was Robert, who married Mary Smith 
and located in Ridgefield township. His children were Daniel, Robert, 
Philip, Joseph, John, Charles, Edward, Elizabeth, Jennie and Mary. 

Andrew Engle, a native of Germany, settled on Bull's Ferry Hill, 
Ridgefield township, in about 1779, and purchased a large tract of land, 
and engaged in tilling the soil. His family consisted of John, Jennet, 
Sarah, Maria, Margaret, Andrew S., and James. 

John married Mary Day, and settled adjacent to his father. His 
children were Jennet. Andrew, Henry, Sarah, Catherine, John, Mar- 
garet, Eliza Ann, James, Wilmina. Louisa. 

CIVIL OKGANIZATION. 

The act of 1871, erecting the township of Ridgefield from the 
southern part of Old Hackensack, defines its lines of boundary as 
follows : 

"Beginning at a point on the Hackensack River where the Cedar 
Lane road strikes the same, running thence in an easterly direction 
along the middle of the said Cedar Lane road to the middle of the Over- 
peck Creek ; thence in a northerl3- direction along the easterly branch of 
said creek to where the same strikes the line of lands formerly of John 



HISTORY OF BEKC.EN COUNTY 493 



I. Demott ; thence easterly along- the southerly line of said Deni )tt's land 
to the east line of the township of Hackensack." 

Edward Jardine became the tirst chosen freeholder under this last 
organization, and served for the year 1.S71, and followed bv Hunh Hros- 
naham for 1872 and 1873, followed l)y Thmnas (ioulard for 1S74, Ijv 
Isaac R. Vreeland for 1875-77, John Wiiitcrburne for 1S78, John J. 
Wood for 1879 and 188lf, by Stephen H. V. Moore for 1.S81 to IS'ii) and 
by Cornelius J. Terhune to 1895, John C. Abb »t to 18'M>, and bv William 

B. Pugh to 189'). 

The assessors of the townshij) since its organization are as follows : 
John V. H. Terhune, 1871-75; James Armett, '76-77; John Fletcher 
Burdett, Jr., '77-79; William E. Taylor, '8;)-85; J.din Burns, ■85-8(.: John 

C. Abbott, '8()-87; John Burns, '87-88; John H. Mannix, "88-91; Thomas 
F. Mallon, '91-94; Henry Beneckc, '94-97; Charles Corker, ■97-'»"». 

The collectors, Nicholas T. Romaine, 1871-72; J(din H. Winant, 
'73-75; William P. Degraw, "7()-78; James Christie, ■80-,s4; Charles H. 
Lozier, '84-86; J. Fletcher Burdett. ■8(,-')(i; James Christie. ""10-91; J. 
Fletcher Burdett, '94-99. 

Township Clerks: James Christie, 1871-73; Andrew S. Engle, '7.'- 
75; Arthur J. Pollock, "75-77; J. H. Mannix, '77-8(1; Charles H. Lozier, 
'80-84; Daniel Manning, '84-87; John H. M(mahan, ■S7-8<); Edward M. 
Fitzgerald, "89-90; Fred. Marsden. "90-92; James F. Tracy, "92-9'). 

The justices of the peace, Charles W. Chamberlain, 1872; James C. 
Hazelton, '73; Thomas Dunn English, '76; Maurice Fitzgerald, '77; 
Arthur J. A. Pollock and Alexander Clendenin, '78; Samuel E. De 
Groot. "7'); James Day. "80; Joseph L. (ireeley, "85; Joseph Covte, "86; 
Cornelius D. Schor. "81-')(); Alexander Clendenin, "83-88; Maurice Fitz- 
gerald, "80-")0; Daniel Manning, "'iO-9'h S. (1. H. Wright, "86-92; Henry 
W. Mabie, "8<)-94; James F. Tracey, "')4-'»'); Eilward A. Caute'-l, '98-99. 
The population of Kidgewood Townshij) in 1875, was 357(). The 
official vote cast at the November election after six boroughs had been 
taken out was 527. 

FKEEHOLDl'.K'S. 

Names of members of Ridgetield Township Committee: 1871, 
Maurice Fitzgerald, John R. Paulison, Nicholas Jocobus, David Christie. 
Joseph Coyte; 1872, Maurice Fitzgerald, Nicholas Jacobus, Jacob \'.Banta, 
David Christie, Albert Z. Bogert; 1873, Maurice Fitzgerald, Albert Z. Bo- 
gert, Nicholas Jacobus, John W. C. Van Winkle, WilliamL. Jones; 1874, 
Maurice Fitzgerald, S. H. V. Moore, Henry D. Eagle, John H. Brinker- 
hoff, Jacob \'. Banta; 1875, Maurice Fitzgerald, S. H. V. Mo;)re, Henry 
J. Kipp, Nicholas Jacobus, Charles W. Chamberlain; 187i«. Iknr\ J. 
Kipp, James Christie, John Monahan, Charles W. Chamberlain, Charles 
E. Richter; 1877, John Monahan, James Christie, Charles E. Richter, 
Henry J. Kipp, John H. Williams; 1878. James Christie, S. H. V. 
Moore, Jacob Terhune, William E. Taylor, John D. Pro'ost; 1879, S. H. 
V. Moore, Jacob Terhune, Janiis Day; 1880. Peter Bogert, Jr., Albert 
B. Christie, Jose])h Coyte; 1881. Nicholas Jacol)us, Peter Bogert, Jr.. 



494 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

John S. Watkins; 1882. Peter Bog-ert, Jr., Nicholas Jacobus, Joseph 
Coyte; 1883, John S. Edsall, Peter Bogert, Jr., Frederick R. Grace; 
1884, Peter Bogert, Jr., Frederick R. Grace, John S. Edsall; i885, Peter 
Bog-ert, Jr., Frederick R. Grace, John S. Edsall; 1886, Peter Bogert, Jr., 
John S. Edsall, Frederick R. Grace; 1887, John S. Edsall, Peter Bogert, 
Jr., Frederick R. Grace; 1888, John C. Abbot. John S. Edsall, 
Frederick R. Grace; 1889, Joseph Schlosser, Jr.. John C. Abbott, 
Johns. Edsall; 1890, John S. Edsall, Joseph Schh)sser. Jr., John C. 
Abbott; 1891, Albert Ravekes, Joseph Schlosser, Jr., John S. Edsall; 
18'»2, Joseph Schlosser, Jr., Albert Ravekes, John S. Edsall; 1893, Peter 
Spindler, Joseph Schlosser, Jr., Albert Ravekes; 1894, Albert Ravekes, 
Joseph Schlosser, Jr., Peter Spindler: 1895, Joseph Schlosser, Jr., Peter 
Spindler, Albert Ravekes; 1896, Samuel Mabie, Joseph Schlosser, Jr., 
Albert Ravekes; 1897, Julius M. Dubois, John A. Brandt, Samuel 
Mabie; i898, Julius M. Dubois, John A. Brandt, Samuel Mabie; 18')<i, 
James A. Brandt, James Burns, John Brown. 

COMMENCEMKNT OF IMPKOVEMENTS TO CKAXD, PAI.ISADF: AND BKOAD 

AVENUES. 

In 1869 an Act was passed by the Legislature of New Jersev to 
widen, straighten, grade, macadamize and put in good order all that 
part of the public road heretofore known as the English Neighborhood 
road, in the township of Hackensack, in the county of Bergen, from 
where it joins the Bergen turnpike in Ridgefield to Palisade Avenue in 
Englewood in the said township; and appointed (iarret A. Lydecker, 
Nathan T. Johnson, Samuel E. De Groot, J. Vreeland Moore and Nich- 
olas T. Romaine commissioners for five vears, in which to make these 
improvements. 

In 1870 the Legislature amended the Act of 18()'t, and largely 
increased the powers of the Commissioners; also specifying that the 
English Neighborhood road should be known as Grand Avenue; and 
also added all that part of Palisade avenue from Grand avenue west- 
wardly to the bridge on said Palisade avenue near the blacksmith shop 
)f Henry West, in said village of Englewood. Said Commissioners were 
also authorized to open, alter, grade and put in good order a new public 
road, to be known as Broad avenue, from Ridgelield to Englewood. In 
1871 and 1872 there was additional legislation; and the Commission 
finallv completed their work July 4. 1874, at an exjiense of a little over 
thirty-tive thousand ilollars. 

SCHOOLS. 

From a report of the schools of Ridgetield township, dated A])ril 
10, 1843, we extract the following: — 

"No. 2, at Fort Lee was visited on the tirst Monday in March. 
The school building appears to be the best, largest, and most com- 
modious of any in the township. A becoming sjnrit animates all in the 
furtherance of i)opular education. The average number of scholars 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 445 

taught is tifty-two. the ti-rms of tuition 81.5(1 and S2.U(); the school has 
been kept open the whole year; the amount of mouev" received S')2.44. 
Out of this was paid for interest debt on school house, $30; to paying 
teacher $30; for stove and fuel $24, leaving an unexpected balance of 
$8.40 Poor children are admitted free of charge, the teacher being 
engaged by the year at a fixed pension. 

" All of which is respectfully subtuitteil." 

(signed) John \'an Hrunt. 

COMP.VNV v.. 2nd KKGIMENT, N. j. VOL. INFT. 

This company was organized May 1. l.S()l, the recruiting having 
been done largely in Ridgefield townshij). The armory is at Leonia. 
The first officers were James Vreeland Moore, Captain; Garret L. Edsall, 
First Lieutenant; Stephen H. \'. Moore. Second Lieutenant: .lohn H. 
BrinkerhoiT, First Sergeant. 

The company was organized for the New Jersey National (iuard 
service, and during the railroad riots of 1877 took ])art in the quelling 
of that disturbance. From the Adjutant General's report of 1S77 we 
find that the 2nd Battalion was commanded by James \'. Moore, Major; 
his staff officers being Charles W. Springer, Adjutant; Jacob J. DeMott, 
Uuarter Master; William P. DeCJraw, Paymaster; Melancthon S. Ayers, 
Surge(m. 

Company A, of I^eonia; B of Englewood. an<l C. of Hackensack, 
1st Brigade composed this Battalion. Companv A, at that time, was 
commanded by Stephen H. \'. Moore, Captain: Emanuel G. (iis'mond. 
First Lieutenant; Frederick (i. Bennett, Second Lieutenant. 

During the Spanish American war, this company, (known as Com- 
pany E, Second Regiment, N. G., N. J. i. was recruited to the war 
standard largely from Leonia. Fort Lee, Covtesville and Englewood, 
and was mustered into the I'nited States service at Sea Grit, N. J., May 
2, 1898, for the Cuban war. On June 1st the Company left therefor 
Camp "Cuba Libre" Jacksonville. Fla.. and was attached to the Second 
Brigade, First Division, 7th Army Corps, (ieneral Fitzhugh Lee com- 
manding. It returned home September 24th, and was mustered out of 
\J. S. service November 17, 1898, at Paterson, N. J. The company was 
commanded by Captain Henry R. Goesser; First Lieutenant, Lorenzo 
Gismond; Second Lieutenant, John Brinkerhoff; First Sergeant, George 
M. Williams, and upon the return of the command the entire company 
received a royal welctmie at Leonia and also at Fort Lee, September 2(>, 

1898. One private of Company E, died during their absence. In com- 
pliance with general orders No. (>, A. (t. ()., dated Trenton, May 2, 

1899, the National Guard of New Jersey, was re-organized to conform as 
nearly as possible to the organizations in the United States Army, and 
reducing the number of infantry requirements from six to four. A 
number of the companies were also disbanded, including the infantry 
Company at Leonia. 



496 HISTOKV OK BEK(;EX COl'NTY 

FOKT LEE.* 

"As tlie traveller passes up the Hudson, he will observe that a 
point nearly opposite Carmansville the mass of rock known as the Pali- 
sades, which from below Hoboken recede for some distance over the 
river, and have their basis studded with towns, villages, and countrv 
seats, are suddenly forced apparently to the edge of the stream by a 
deep and narrow ravine. Thence thev approach so close to the water's 
edge that their columnar wall seems to rise nearly direct over the bed of 
the river. In the circular bend made by this change of position lies the 
older village of Fort Lee, formed by about fiftv dwelling houses, an 
exceedingly uncomfortable schoolhouse, a shacklv building that was 
once a piano manufactory, a dilapidated barn, and four wharves that 
seem to have been erected about the time that Charles II gave to his 
brother that portion of the New Netherlands, now known as New 
Jersey. This is the original settlement which grouped itself arcjund 
Berdette's house after the Revolution. The modern portitm of the vil- 
lage, embracing the mint)r hamlets of Coytesville, Taylorsville, Pond 
Park and Irishtown, lies above the summit of the Palisades, and 
occupies about four square miles. This part contains nearly three hun- 
dred and fifty buildings, irregularly scattered over the surface, and 
fashioned in every style of architecture known to civilization, including 
some erections that seem to be modelled after the style of Kamtchatka 
and Central Africa. The roads and streets are graded and covered in a 
way that would break the hearts of McAdam and Telford, could either 
of these famous engineers see them. 

"The Palisades, which first show at this point their most striking 
peculiarity of formation, commences at Bergen Heights and extends to 
the New York line, a distance of about twenty-four miles. Their height 
varies from two hundred to five hundred feet, and their average width 
is a1)out one and a half mile. They are composed of metamorphic rock, 
particularly trap and green stone, with occasional thin seams of zoolite, 
maguesite and amethystine quartz. The summit of the Palisades from 
Bull's Ferry upward remain in an almost primitive state of wildness. 
The timber is mostjy of second and third growth, but it contains many 
beautiful trees that might have been standing v>'hen Hendrick Hudson 
ascended the river. 

"In the rockv clefts, and through the rarely trodden woods that 
have thus far escaped the axe, there is to be found a choice varietj- of 
insect and reptile life not to be seen on the other side of the Hudson. 
The deer and panther have long since gone with the red men; and the 
fox and American hare, and that handsome little animal which defends 
himself against all comers by a perfume more potent than agreeable, 
make all the fauna of to-day. Snakes there are in abundance; copper- 
heads, black snakes and blowing vipers abound, while occasionally a 
rattlesnake gives warning that he has not yet entirely yielded to the 
approach of civilization. P^or miles and miles a foot traveller may pass 

From a skeltil ..ii K.irt I.n- 1.% Dr. •riiomas Dunn Eiljflisl! in 1S71, 



HISTOKY OK BEKGEN COfXTY 4<»7 

aloiif^- the summit (,)f the Palisades and find no trace of man, hut of the 
wihl heauty of nature he will find enousi'h. The artist who makes his 
annual wearv piltjTimai^es to the White Mountains or the Adirondacks 
in search of subjects for the jiencil. rarely knows tliat within less than 
an hour's journey from the Art Buildin<^ he can find studies enoujifh to 
keep him busy for a lifetime at his easel, and that he has a choice 
between inland scenes of i^i'ri'at variety and beaut v, and water views, 
with an extent of panorama and a])ex of liijiit, shade and atmosjdiere to 
be surpassed in few portions, if any in the United States." 

"Durini; the Revolution Fort Lee was the theatrt' of many excitins^ 
scenes, and raids were made by the British and Tories along the Hud- 
son from Weehawken to Ta])pan, dri\in!;' ofT cattle and destroying' 
property of the settlers. South of Fort hcc. above Bull's Ferry, <m 
Block-house Point, stood the famous block-house, the refuge for the 
most unscrupulous Tories of the Revolution. From the block-house 
frequent raids were made ui^on the settlers. Washington ordered Gen- 
eral Wayne to attack this neighborhood, ;ind on July Jo. 1780, Wayne 
left his headquarters at New Bridge, and. leaving two regiments at Fort 
Lee, proceeded with the remainder of his force to the attack. On tlie 
morning of the 21st the attack was made, and after a tierce encounter 
Cieneral Wayne was forced to witlulr^.w, first destroying the Tories' 
boats on the river front, and dri\ing off their cattle. • 

"This attack brougdit forth a sarcastic i)oem entitled " The Cow 
Chase," written by Major A;:ilre, the unfortunate British ofi|icer who 
was executed as a spy, just beyon<l the border of this county, near the 
village of Tappan. 

"It was at Fort Lee that the noted Thomas Paine wrote one of his 
famous political pap-ers, tlie one beginning with the often quoted 
phrase: " These are the times that try men's souls." In a short account 
of the battle and evacuation of Fort Lee, Paine says: 

"It is stated that Washington saw the assault and its result and 
wept at the sight in the presence of Burdett, who lived in the house 
below the cliff, which, part of the time was Greene's headquarters, and 
still stands with a modern addition. This account is implicitly believed 
by Dr. Dixon. Burdett was evidently one of tliose prudent men who 
kept on good terms wit'n both sides. With a large force ready to 
cross at the ferries above, and powerful enougli to force a passage, F^ort 
Lee and its dependencies became unattainable, and preparations for 
retreat was made at once. The movement on the 2()th, was that of the 
rearguard. The distance was not more than five miles by the direct 
route, but a part of the forces moved up a lower rf)ad, traces of which 
exist and have furnished the artist with one of his views. The main 
road now a little south of the present turnpike, arose on the hill, so as 
to strike just back of the present residence of Henry J. Irving, running 
close to tlie farm house, now occupied by William Taylor. As (ieneral 



498 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

Washington lodged at this last house for a short while, it forms one of 
the many Washington headquarters. The exterior of the house, built 
in the Dutch style, has been recently modernized, but the interior of the 
sitting room remains, — except the furniture — in its old condition. 
There is a bullet hole in the jamb of one of the doors, a relic of a Revo- 
lutionary skirmish. Mr. Trylor took out the bullet some years since 
and then replaced the casing leaving the hole unfilled. Down these two 
roads the army seems to have marched, with the exception of a few who 
retreated in a path further south above a beaver dam, which may still be 
seen, minus the beavers. The British pursued as far as the Hackensack 
river where they encamped. 

" Fort Lee did not grow for a long time after the Revolutionary 
war. At one time it was the seaport town of the county. Here the 
farmers of the neighboring valley used to embark with produce to seek 
a New York market, first in periaguas, then in horse-boats and iinally 
in the steamboat. Turnpike roads first and railroads afterward, diverted 
this stream of travel. Then came a piano manufactory. After some 
years this passed. Then came the shoe interest, which had its day, and 
gave place to the Belgian block-makers, who now 'form the industrial 
element of the neighborhood. With all these the lower village does not 
grow, for mere want of space. As for the upper village, that is gradu- 
ally expanding. In 1776 there were farms on the hill. War swept all 
that, and Demeter fled before Ares. The embankment was thrown up 
in a cornfield, in which were a number of bearing pear trees that were 
cut down to form abatis. When the war was over the i)lace was cover- 
ed with copsewood and brambles, with young trees, and liquid ambers 
and hickories here and there, that gradually formed a grove. As the 
proprietors of the ground were Tories, and Toryism got the worst of it, 
their property was confiscated and sold to the highest bidder. The 
highest bidder was a very low bidder indeed. A few shillings per acre 
was considered a high 'price for land that was made up of rock and 
swamp and low grow^th. There is a tract in the neighborhood, held 
partly by position, and partly through reference to it in the conveyance 
of an adjoining plot of ground. The owner did not think the ground of 
enough value to pay for, according to the original deed, which was 
afterward lost. Yet part of this wild property sold for thirty dollars 
per acre less than thirty years since and recently changed hands at over 
one hundred and eighty-six times that price. 

THE BOl'KDETTES. 

Fort T^ee was commenced on the 12, of September, 1776, and was 
situated on the western side of the road that leads up the hill from the 
steamboat landing, about three hundred feet behind Palisade rocks 
which skirt the river. Its southern bastion is situated directly behind 
the Episcopal Church. It was about a quarter of an acre in extent, and 
was surrounded by an embankment, still traceable, though nearly 
obliterated by the plough. 



HISTOKV OF BEKGEN COUNTY 4''*' 

Some four hundred acres — comprising' the whole of the village 
])roper, tog-ether with the landing and the hill on which the hotel 
stands — were purchased about twenty years before the Revolution, by 
Stephen Bourdette, wlm, in connection with William Baj-ard had 
received from the King- a grant of a large tract of land, comprising 
Weehawken and Ht)boken. The house is still standing at Weehawken 
Hill, in which he lived. He purchased the land at P^ort Lee from an 
old slave who had been made a freeman by his master, and lived in soli- 
tude by lishingf and trapping the animals that abounded in the vast 
forest about that place. 

The father of Stephen, Etienne Bourdette, was the son of a French 
g-entleman who had left hisnative country many years before the Edict of 
Nantes and settled in one of West India islands as a planter. Etienne 
had been sent to New York by his father, to acquire an education, about 
eighty years before the war. 

Stephen Bourdette lived in Pine street and cultivated the beautiful 
region of which we write purchased the entire place, and erected a 
spacious stone house afterward occupied by Robert Annette, pro])rie- 
tor of the hotel and landing. This exceedingly valuable and command- 
ing situation, was given to an ohl man for constructing a few hundred 
yards of wall, to hold up the old road leading from Mr. Burdette's house 
to the cow pasture on top the hill. 

The stone house occupied bv Etienne Burdette, was the only one 
then standing on the place. This was the headquarters of Washing- 
ton, and after the death of Etienne it was left to his son Peter, and 
his wife, who had been living at Hackensack, but came to take charge 
of their father in his extreme old age. He died there, aged eighty 
years. Peter Bourdette, with his excellent wife, came to the place about 
fifteen years before the war, and soon made it an abode of great comfort 
and hospitality. There the miserable and afflicted always found a com- 
forter, and were never turned away empty. 

Upon the death of Etienne, several years before the war, the place 
was given by Stephen to his brother Peter, who with his eldest son (also 
Peter) and his wife Rachel Bush, then seven years t)ld, afterwards the 
mother oi Edward H. Dixon of New York, passed through the stormy 
period of the Revolution. In November, 1776, Washington having 
issued orders to General Mercer to summon all available troops and erect 
a fort there, hundreds of tents appeared on the high ground that com- 
mands the river, the general himself coming on the i.^th of that month. 

Washington became the admiration of the Bourdette family, he 
having taken up his abode in the old Bourdette homestead. On more 
than one occasion it is said a son of Peter Bourdette, a youth of sixteen 
years rowed to the city at midnight and brought papers and intelligence 
of the anticipated movements of the British army which threatened Port 
Washington, and then the illustricms chief would retire to his room and 
peruse the papers after which he would walk to the Fort and insjK-ct 



500 ■ HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

tlirovigh his glass the movements at Fort Washington on the other side 
of the river. 

One night, when the bra\-e youth was approaching the shore after 
one of his night visits to the city to get the news for the General, and 
to convey some provisions to her poor friends from his excellent mother, 
who never forgot the needy, the wind prevented his signal from being 
heard by the sentinels who guarded the shore, and supposing an enemy 
to be approaching, a rifle ball cut his oar into two pieces. As he had 
but one oar left, he managed his boat with it as well as he could, and 
landed, at great risk of being shot, about a mile down the river, and 
made his way home on foot. On this occasion, the chief stood bv while 
his mother ripped up the lining of the boy's great coat, and receiving 
the pa])ers, complimented him warnilv for his bravery. 

* Dr. Edward H. Dixcm in writing of the battle at Fort Lee, and its 
evacuatiim by Washington, says: 

My grandmother and the children were obliged to flee to the Eng- 
lish Neighborhood, two miles off, so as to escape the immediate conse- 
quences of the free plunder that they knew was to come — my grand- 
father and his son remaining, to collect, if possible, any property that 
might be spared. 

What valuables and money they possessed were buried, and they 
soon had occasion to summon all their fortitude. Some thousands of 
Hessians and mercenary soldiers devastated the place. A perfect saturn- 
alia now commenced. A barrel of whiskey and another of sugar were 
rolled out of the cellar, and thrown into a rain-water cask standing at 
one corner of the house, in the court-yard. My good grandmother's 
dairy room yielded its aid, and a jiuncheon of milk punch was made, 
and stirred with a rail. My grandfather begged a British officer to try 
to preserve at least a single pail of milk for his children's evening meal. 
Overcome with sympathy at the request, he was too much excited to 
carry out his benevolent intentions judiciously. Ap])roaching a Hes- 
sian soldier, who was coming up the cellar steps with a flat vessel of 
milk (called a "keeler" in dairy phrase) on his head, he struck him 
slightly on the back with the flat side of his sword. The cowardly 
creature jumped aside at his officer's frown, the bottom of the old vessel 
broke, and he became in a moment a personification of plenty — literally 
flowing with milk. There was a shout of laughter, in which my grand- 
father was too much of a Frenchman not to join. 

When the punch was prepared, my grandfather was impudently 
requested to drink the King's health by those wretched creatures, the 
Hessian soldiers. They were using their shoes by way of drinking 
cups. Several British officers were present, and it is but doing them 
justice to say that they seemed to sympathize with the inhabitants. 
One of them immediately stepjKnl up to my grandfather, and advised 

The abnvesUelch is lak.-n from wiirk now oul i>f print .MUiUed "Sceiif!; in tile Pr,n;t'ce of .1 
New York Siirijeon" ami wriiu-ii bv Kdwaril H. Dixon. M. I)., wlio wa- a trraiiilson ol til.' .Mr. Hiuir- 



HISTOKY OF BKKGKN COUNTY 501 

iiim to ^■o throuiiii with the lOrmalitv onl v, as the soldiers continued to 
call loudly for him. There were hundreds of soldiers present. He said hv 
feared it would be the cause of ])ersonal danjifer to him if he refused; 
but he had stern Huguenot blood in liiin, and replied that if he drank 
at all, he would say what he ])leased. Thev immediately made way for 
him to approach the puncheon, and the officers, who well knew his bold- 
ness, surrounded him completely. Uncovering his head an<l dipping 
his hand into the liijuor, which he only pretended to drink, he bowed 
to the name he was about to utter, rather than to the officers, 
and exclaimed in his clearest tones, throwing a Frenchman's kiss over the 
mountain where he had that morning taken leave of his beloxed and 
great friend, "The health of (Jeneral Washington, confusion to King 
(leorge, and destruction to his hireling Hessians," It was well for him 
that the ofticers were attached to him, or he would have been cut to 
pieces by the infuriated scddiers. Whv he was not killed l)y some of 
them when the officers were absent, is to me, a wonder, for his fearless 
utterance was always exas])erating. 

At the end of ten davs the British troops had evacuated the place, 
and were proceeding toward Newark under Cornwallis, Washington 
had crossed the Passaic on his way to New Brunswick, and my gr;ind- 
father and his son went in pursuit of the family to bring them back to 
their ruined household. My mother and the other children were l)rought 
over, and they were about being sent supperless to such beds as could be 
prepared for them out of the torn fragments which the infuriated sol- 
diery had not entirely destroyed, when my good grandmother appeared, 
coming down the hill on an old wooden sled, drawn by a beautiful horse, 
the only living animal they now possessed, driven by a black man. All 
the cattle and other horses were, of course, carried off by the British 
trooi)s, and she had, herself, driven this horse to the English Neighbor- 
hood, when the family fled from the old house with a bag of flour and 
a few pounds of butter, and secreted him in the cellar of an old deserted 
house I have often seen. Here he remained for three days, without food 
or drink, and would have died but for the kindness of a British officer, 
who was attached to my grandfather, and to whom she conununicated 
the hiding place of her beautiful pet. He kindly went o\er and fed 
him and gave him drink, during those three days, when the Jiritish had 
extended themselves from Fort Lee. and were foraging the southern ])or- 
tion of the English Neighborhood, where she, of course, could not ven- 
ture to go. 

Hearing their mother below stairs, the children were clamorous for 
food, for they had not eaten since morning. The poor little creatures 
were fain to content themselves with a raw turnip till some cakes could 
be hastily made for them. The wholesome milk and the pet cows each 
one having its name and its owner — were all gone; and had it not been 
for the providence of a mother who C(mibined all the affection of the 
woman with the firmness of a most determined man, they might have 
well nii>-h starved to death; for, as we have already said, there was no 



502 HISTOHY OK BEKGHN COUNTY 

other house near, and the people for miles were robbed of all their food 
and cattle. 

"Bless God for all his mercies. Here you are, and here are we all 
together; and here is food, too," said this excellent woman to her hus- 
band. "I feared your tongue would cost you your life." She little 
knew how nearly true her anticipations had proved. 

My mother, who was but seven years of age. and her sister mounted 
the old sled, and begged a turnip to appease their hunger. She had 
found her doll and her pet cat near the wood-pile, and seated herself on 
a log, perfectly happy, eating her turnip. 

"This is hard to bear," said my grandmother; "l)ut (iod will yet 
prosper our cause, if we follow the counsels of Washington." 

"Yes." said her husband; "and they now know my sentiments 
adding an expletive in French, which his feelings will pardon. 

" What's that?" said she. "Some more imprudence, I dare say." 

A few days after, my uncle told her the story of the punch and the 
toast, to which she jocosely replied, looking nevertheless proudly at lier 
husband: "Pity it is your father had not a little Dutch blood in him. 
These Frenchmen are always half crazy. Thank (xod, my son, your 
father was not killed before your ej-es." 

The family were now in still greater danger than before, for they 
were entirely unprotected, as the entire American army were west of the 
Hackensack, and what was worse, the country was continually ravaged 
by tories and robbers. What money and valuables they possessed were 
buried, and my grandfather abstracted from time to time only enough to 
procure bread for his family during the winter. It was useless to pur- 
chase many cattle, for he could not be sure of preserving them over a 
single night. The family managed to subsist during this hard winter; 
l)ut it was necessary for my uncle to visit the city, often at great 
risk of life, to procure food; and when I last saw him, at ninety years of 
age, firm and erect, with the voice and will of a lion, his immense 
features and grey hair adding great dignity to his appearance, I could 
not but think that the sage was right when he said, "Difficulty is good 
for man". 

An event occurred shortly after the evacuation of Fort Ivee. which 
I have often felt would have graced the page of history, although it 
never probably occurred to its chief actor that it was worth recording; 
for he never seemed to think it of much moment. Cieneral Knyphausen 
continued in command of the fort and the division of the army on the 
northern part of the island of New York. But a few days elapsed after 
the family had returned, when they were alarmed by the rude midnight 
summons of a British officer, followed by several soldiers, and a demand 
that my grandfather should immediately cross the river to the fort. 
They were all dreadfully alarmed; but the officer assured them he would 
be permitted to return before da}-, as General Knyphausen merely required 
some information, which would insure his safe return. This was equal 
to an assurance that he would be sent to one of the city prisons, as the 



HISTOKY OK BEKGEN COUNTY 503 

family knew he Wduld communicate nothing to the enemy, and that he 
had greatlY exasperated the Hessians by the toast. It had now obtained 
general currency, and every one supposed him a doomed man. My uncle 
most earnestly begged to be permitted to accom])any his father, but 
was not allowed. He was hurried off to the fort, none supposing they 
would again see him in weeks or months, if ever. On his arrival at the 
fort, he was immediatelv intr<iduced to (General Knyphausen, who treat- 
ed him very courteously, offering wine and refreshment. 

The General soon commenced the conversation by alluding to the 
trouble my grandfather had already undergone, and made some remarks 
on the unequal contest. My grandfather replied that when a whole 
nation were of one mind, and a country as extensive as America, he 
could scarcely believe it jxyssible to subjugate them without years of 
sacrifice and expenditure. General Knyphausen smiled, and asked if 
the recent results showed much determination on the part of the Amer- 
icans. My grandfather had it on his tongue to refer him to General 
Rawlings and the northern bastion of the fort, within the enclosure of 
which they were then sitting; but prudence prevailed and he was silent. 
General Knyphausen was not a rude man, and made no further effort to 
prolong the conversation; but drawing from his pocket a heax'v purse of 
gold, he threw i' upon the table, and assured niv grandfather that he 
would be i)leased to extend to his f;imilv. in his present dangerous 
position on the lines, the ai<l and ])rolectiiiTi of a guard, and that he 
would be happv in return to receive some necessary information about 
the future movements of the armv; that as General Washington had 
been his guest, he must possess more knowledge of the plan of action 
than any other person; ending with the assurance that he would be 
pleased to possess his personal friendship, and in return he would sup- 
])lv his more immediate pecuniary necessities, pointing to the ])urse. 
Mv grandfather felt as though every drop of blood in his Ijody had 
mounted to his face. He immediately arose, and walking towards the 
further entrance of the tent, replied: "Permit me, (ieneral Knyphausen, 
to draw this conversation to a close; and excuse me for the remark, that 
if vou insist upon its further continuance. I cannot but feel it will be 
discreditable to both of us. I have already been too long here; but 
what could a man, seized at midnight, surrounded by a helpless family 
do, but vield to superior force ? I am ready to accompany your soldiers 
to your prison, for I suppose that is to be my fate ?" 

" That is not the way, Mr. Bourdette." replied General Kny])hau- 
sen. " I have no such intention. But vou are a bold man thus to trifle 
with your family. I will return you to them for the present, but can- 
not always promise to be so lenient," 

"General Knyphausen," replied my grandfather, " it may save you 
and my helpless family further trouble should the chance of war again 
bring General Washington under my roof, if I inform y(m that I am not 
advised of his intended movements. They will doubtless be dictated by 
the emergencies brought about by your superior numbers and apjxiint- 



5U4 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

ments; but I trust in God for my poor country, they will result in good. 
Good niofht. General, I am certainly indebted to you for your clemencv, 
and hope you will save yourself and me any future trouble of a character 
like the present." 

" Ciood night. Mr. Bnurdctte. You are a bold man, and if your 
countrvmen were all like vou, we would have harder duty before us." 

My grandfather reached home in safety, and was awaited by the 
whole family, who had not slept since his departure. 

But my pen betrays me, and I must close this tribute to the m.emorv 
of the past. The family underwent many vicissitudes during the sub- 
sequent six years of the war. 

The old house was rebuilt shortly after the war, and its rooftree a 
second time became grey with muss whilst it covered the venerable 
heads of its owners, and they recounted to their grandchildren the 
scenes they had witnessed, and again made it the abode of comfort and 
hospitality. Often, as in my schoolboy days, I have sought the old 
mansion through the forest of Weehawken, and could see the venerable 
pair seated on the porch, and hear the echo of the woodman's axe and 
the tinkling of the cow-bell, I have thought, even in my early youth, 
that a life thus spent, and Hearing its close, was far more ccmgenial 
with nature and true dignity of character, than all the applause of popu 
larity or the fawning sycophancy of luxury and fashion. 

KOBEKT ANNETT. 

Robert Annett was born in Ireland of French ancestry September 
l')88. In company of his brother James and sister Mary, he came to 
this country when eleven years old. After landing he worked for a 
Ouaker family in New York city, and was by them apprenticed to a ship 
carpenter. Being early thrown upon his own resources he did not stay 
long as ship carpenter, but became the owner of a small sloop, ( Perry 
Atger I, carrying freight along the Hudson and was for a time engaged 
in running a ferry from Hoboken to Christopher Street, New York, 
with Barnet De Klyn, in lSOf>, he opened a grocery store in Vessey 
street, North side, between Greenwich and Washington streets. While 
running this store old Commodore Vanderbilt would bring from Staten 
Island in his sloop a load of oysters to the oyster market. The old 
Commodore after selling his goods would often visit Robert Annett's 
store and buy his groceries. A strong friendship grew up between the 
two men and lasted during their lives. 

In 1S()5 Robert Annett married Catharine, daughter of Samuel 
Mtxire. From this union were born twelve children, four of these dying 
in infancy. Those growing up were Mary, James, Stephen, Catharine, 
Robert, Jr., Alexander, Hannah and George W. Robert Annette moved 
to Fort Lee in the year 1824 and purchased a plot of ground between the 

old Fort Lee road and the river, from one Sloat, he constantly 

added to this in time owning most of the Bluff property. 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 505 

The tirst ferry was run from Fort Lee to Spring- street by John 
Deg-roat. Boat named "Echo" two trips a day. This was in the year 
1825. The trip took two and a half hours time. The steamer " Shep- 
pard Knapp" took the place of the "Kcho" in 1829, owned by Joe 
Coffee. She was replaced by the steamer "Boston" afterwards named 
"Robert Annett " also run by Coffee, Captain Ike Scott in command. 
Then the steamer "Frank," Captain Rodger; steamer "Flora," Captain 
Hanes; then "Thomas E. Hulse," Captain George W. Annett. 

BKKGEN COfXTV TKWCTIOX COMPANY ( TKOLLKY ) KAILKOAD AND RIVEK- 
SIDE AND KOKT LEE FEKKY. 

The trolley which runs through Fort Lee from the ferry to 130th 
Street, New York, was commenced in March, 1895. 

The Riverside and F'ort Lee Ferry removed from the old landing- at 
Fort Lee Under-the-Hill to Pleasant Valley April 20th, 1896. On that 
day the trolley and the ferry, which is its terminus, were opened for 
public traffic. At that time the road extended only as far as Leonia 
Heig-hts, but has since been extended to the city of Eng-lewood, and 
Bogota, on the Hackensack River, and will shortly run into Hackensack 
with which it is now connected by stag-e. After leaving the ferry the 
road runs up the Palisades by means of a switchback, thence along- the 
Palisades along- Palisade Avenue to Main Street, Fort Lee, continuing- 
akmg Main Street to Leonia. The cars and other equipments of the 
line are of the most approved modern appliances known in trolley con- 
struction. 

The road is owned and operated by Philadelphia people, the resi- 
dent officials of the company being William N. Barrows, Secretary and 
Treasurer; E. W. Lawson, Superintendent. 

PALISADE KAILKOAD. 

The ctrastruction of this railroad was commenced in the year 1893 
and completed and opened for traffic in the early part of 1894. It was first 
operated as a steam road, but has since been changed to Trolley. At 
first its northern terminus was at Fort Lee, but now extends to Coytes- 
ville, and is operated by the North Hudson Railroad Company, its ter- 
minus being the West Shore ferries at Weehavvken, connecting with 
Hoboken, Jersey Citv, and the entire system of North Hudson Railroad 
Company. 

ELECTRIC LIGHTS. 

On the 2d of May, 1899, a meeting was held and appropriations 
made for lighting Fort Lee and Coytesville with electric lights. A con- 
tract was signed by the Township Committee with the Hackensack Gas 
and Electric Light Company, and the erecti(m of the poles is now in 
progress. Everything will be in readiness for lighting by July 20th. 

FORT LEE FIKE DEPARTMENT. 

The Fort Lee Fire Protecti()n Association, No. 1, was organized as 
a volunteer tire company July 18, 1888. A handsome fire house was 



50() HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

erected on the sotith side of Main street, two stories in height, with 
engine room down stairs and large meeting room upstairs. September 
14, 1898, under an ordinance passed by the Ridgefield Township Com- 
mittee, this company was accepted as the first company of the Ridge- 
field Township Fire Department, and is now under township control as 
regular firemen. 

MADONNA CHUKCH. 

Catholic services were first held at Fort Lee at the residence of Dr. 
H. Anderson, and in 1859 the present church was erected principally by 
Dr. Anderson. The pastors who have supplied this church are Fathers 
Anelli, 1859-62; J. Heyman, 1862; Patrick Corrigan, 1863-66; H. A. 
Brann, D. D., 1866-67; Patrick Cody, 1867-69; O. J. Smith, 1869-97; G. 
Spierings, 1870-76; Rev. Daniel, 1876-82; Rev. Dominic, 1882-86; Rev. 
Hyacinth, 1886-91; J. A. Huygen, July 25, 1891, to the present time. 

The membership of the church including Coytesville, Nordhoff, 
Palisades Park and Undercliff is twelve hundred and sixty-five, men 
woman and children, 

INSTITUTE OF THE HOLY ANGELS. 

This institute for young ladies under the Sisters of Notre Dame 
was chartered bv the Legislature in June 1890. The convent was once 
the residence of the late Dr. Anderson, a well known scientist and 
philanthropist who desired that his home should one day be converted 
into an institution of learning. The doctor did not live to see his 
wishes fulfilled but his plans were carried out in the purchase of his 
home together with the eleven acres of ground with it, by the Sisters 
of Notre Dame on the Feast of the Guardian Angel, October 2, 1879. 
In 1890 a new school building was erected on the north side of the old 
residence facing Linwood Avenue. 

The building is furnished with every accessory for comfort, conve- 
nience and safety, and in dimensions is one hundred feet long by sixty- 
five feet in width, and three stories high. 

The Sisters began the erection of the Chapel of the Holy Angels in 
March, 1894, and on the Feast of Annunciation, 25th of March, 1895, it 
was dedicated by the Right Reverend W. M. Wigger, Bishop of the 
Diocese, under whose lordship, also presiding on June 20th, 1899, the 
twentieth annual commencement of the school was held. 

CHURCH OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD. 

Rev. Ralph Hoyt held Episcopal services in Fort Lee from 1852 to 
1853 in a small church erected at a-cost of four hundred dollars, but the 
church was never organized. Owing to Mr. Hoyt's ill health he aban- 
doned preaching and since 1880 no services have been held in the church. 
The house is now used for business purposes. 

STONE CHITRCH. — (PARKEK PEACE.) 

This building was erected in 1867 by General Edward Jardine, John 
G. Cunningham and others at a cost oi eight thousand dollars. The 



HISTOKY OF BEKCKN COUNTY 507 

tirst trustees were J. (J. Brown, J. (i. Cunningham and General Edward 
-lard inc. 

The church jjjissed through many hands, owned at one time bv J. 
R. Hoadley, of New York, who let it out to all denominati(.)ns for relig- 
ious purposes, and it was so used from 1880 to 1889. In February 1899 
it was purchased by the "Good Shepherd Mission" of the Episcopal 
Church, and is now owned and occupied by them, having- a good and 
steadily increasing membership. The pastors from 1889 to date are as 
folloA's: Reverends Matthew A. Bailey, "Walter M. Sherwood, J. Byron 
Curtis, M. M. Fothergill, James McCleary, and Charles M. Douglass. 
F^rom the date of its erection to the present time, Charles Wilson has 
been sexton. 

Reverend B. C. C. Parker came to Fort Lee in the year IS.^'I, and l)uilt 
a home on what is now known as Parker Place. He came originally from 
Boston, and settled in New York where he preached in the Seaman's 
Floating Church at Peck's Slip. He made many improvements about 
his home at Fort Lee, employing a number of men. He died January 
3, 1859. 

THK CHUKCH OF THK PALISADES. 

The Church of the Palisades, (Dutch Reformed), in Coytesville, 
owes its origin, under God, to the self denying labors of Mrs. Catherine 
F. Dana, wife of Mr. William B. Dana. 

On the 15th day of February, 18f)3, she organized a Sabbath school 
at her residence near Englewood, which rapidly increased in members 
and interest, and soon led to the establishment of a monthly preaching 
service conducted by the neighboring clergy. A little later, in response 
to an application made by Mr. Dana to the Board of Domestic Missions 
of the Reformed Church, an appropriation of three hundred dollars was 
made by said Board, in part payment of the support of a missionary to 
the people living in the vicinity of Mr. Dana's residence, and the Rev. 
Dr. Puytren Vermilye was put in charge of the Mission. 

On the 22nd of May, 1866, a church was organized by the Classis of 
Bergen at the house of Mr. Dana; and in September, 1867, the "Church 
of the Palisades" was incorporated in accordance with the laws of the 
State of New Jersey. 

In November, 1867, Mr. Joseph Coyte presented to the church two 
building lots in the village of Coytesville, and sold to the church a third 
lot adjoining, for the sum of one hundred and fifty dollars. On this 
site a chapel was erected, and was dedicated to the worship of God on 
the 14th of October, 1868. A loan of SIOOO was made to the church 
from the Building Fund of the Board of Domestic Missi(ms, which made 
the erection of the chapel possible. 

The connection of the Rev. Mr. Vermilye with the church was 
severed in January, 1868, and he was immediately succeeded by the Rev. 
Isaac M. See as Missionary. Mr. See withdrew in 1871, and following 
him the Rev. J. A. Davis, January 28, 1872; the Rev. Henry Maltice in 



508 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

i873, the. Rev. F. M. Bog-ardus in 187') and the Rev. W. E. Buckek-w in 
May 1888. 

In the Spring- of 1888 a considerable number of the cong^regation 
became disaffected and withdrew from the church, and org-anized a 
Congreg-ational Church. Mr. Buckelew's health failed, and he was dismis- 
sed from his pastoral charge in the early part of 1893, and in May of 
the same year the Rev. Artemas Dean, D. D., was installed and still 
remains pastor of the church. 

" The Church of the Palisades " has ever been small in numbers, 
and until May 18'H, regularly received large aid from the Board of 
Domestic Missions. Since that date it has been self supporting. Mr. 
William B. Dana, though no .longer a resident in this neighborhood, 
has continued to this day to be a princely contributor to the treasury of 
the church, and without his aid it is difficult to see how the regular 
worship of the sanctuary could have been maintained. A Christian 
Kndeavor Society organized six years ago, has done g-ood work, and dur- 
ing two years of its history gave more per capita to 'the Mission Boards 
of our order than any other Christian Endeaver Society in New Jersey. 
Two years ago it raised funds and purchased a free circulating Library 
numbering over nine hundred volumes, which is kept in the gallery of 
the church, under the care of the Society. 

There are sixty-four names on the roll of church members. 

CHAKLES VOGEL. 

Charles Vogel, inventor and machinist was born in Germany 
August 22nd, 1843, and eight years later his father, Ludwig Vogel, 
with his family set sail for America, landing in New York where Charles 
was educated. At the age of twenty-two he began the career of inventor, 
since then having taken out about fifteen patents on various kinds of 
machines. His first patent, g-ranted in 1867, was for a machine for cut- 
ting files. Many previous attempts having been made by prominent 
inventors without success, it was the general opinion that the only way 
to cut a file was by hand. Mr. Vogel's invention, however, refuted this 
idea, his files comparing favorably with the hand made, both in dura- 
bility and cutting qualities. 

In 1874 he moved with his family to Fort Lee and established a 
machine shop, where he continues to construct the machines of his own 
invention. The last two, which are manufactured mostly by himself, 
are an improved steam engine, and an especial contrivance for burning 
crankshafts for engines, etc. This engine has three cylinders and but 
one rotary valve making half as many revolutions as the main shaft. It 
is perfectly balanced, and can be run slowly on account of having no 
dead center and can also be run rapidly, several engines running now 
at the rate of fifteen hundred revolutions per minute. It is light in 
weight, very compact, economical in the use of steam, entirely enclosed, 
and can be started or stopped at any point, and can also be instantly 
reversed. 




chaki.es vogei. 



510 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

Any one familiar with the process, is aware of the tedious task of 
burning a crank in a lathe on account of the vibration of the unbalanced 
and unsupported mass of metal, and as only light cuts can be taken, the 
necessity- of using long cutting tools in order to reach the crank pin, 
adds to the vibration and uncertainty of the work. On this machine 
crank pins are burned with the shafts remaining in the main centers, 
thus assuring perfect alignment in every direction, the crank remaining 
stationary while the cutter travels around the crank. A rest easily 
adjusted holds the crank perfectly rigid while being burned, thus pre- 
venting vibration and enabling it to produce a round crank pin on shafts 
which would be considered too weak to be burned by the old way. A 
change can quickly be made to a greater or less throw of crank without 
removing shaft from main centers. 

In 1862 Mr. Vogel joined the New York National Guard and as a 
member of the 11th Regiment took part in the campaign when the New 
York National Guard was called upon in 1863 to repulse the invasion of 
the Confederate General Stuart in Pennsylvania and Maryland. He 
continued an active member of this regiment until 1871, when he 
resigned. Since 1870 Mr. Vogel has been a member of Copestone 
Lodge 641, F. and A. M., of New York. 

He was married in May 187.? to Miss Elise Guide of New York. 
She died in 1891. Their children were Charles, Alfred and Paul. In 
1893 Mr Vogel married Miss Marie H. Campbell of Fort Lee, and two 
children have been born of this marriage, Henrietta and Weston. 

GEKOME SAKDI 

On Third Street, New York, near West Broadway, is one of the 
largest plants in the East for the manufacture of artificial flowers. 
The business was established in 1878 by Gerome Sardi who mastered 
the intricacies of manufacturing and trade in this line of goods, after 
years of experience and close application, having successfully met the 
requirments of the most fastidious, for beauty and personal adornment, 
not only in flowers but also in feathers and piquets. 

The business is carried on under the firm name of (i. & M. Sardi, 
importers and manufacturers, and gives einployment to nearly live 
hundred hands. The trade has almost a world wide patronage in the 
wholesale line, and Mr. Sardi has a favorable and extensive acquaint- 
ance, especially in the East. They have ofiiices in Paris, at the Rue 
des Petites-Ecuries, 54. 

Mr. Sardi was bt)rn in Italy in the city of (Jenoa in 1855. When 
sixteen years of age he came to America and worked for a pittance 
until he amassed a small sum for his business, which he finally suc- 
ceeded in establishing on a small scale, in 1878. In 1888 he came to 
P^ort Lee in which place he now resides, having always taken an active 
interest in the prosperity and growth of the place. Mr. Sardi is fore- 
most in all progressive movements looking toward the improvement of 
the place of his adopted home. 



HISTORY OF BP:rOKN COUNTY 511 

J. KI.KTCHKK BTilv'DKTT. 

J. Fletcher Burdett is the son of John F., and grrandson of Peter 
Burdett, of whose ancestry a full history is g-ivcn in this chapter on 
Fort Lee. J. Fletcher Burdett was l-orn in March, 1843. After his 
education in the public schools, which was completed when he was 
fifteen years of age, he apprenticed himself in the carriage making 
business at Rah way, N. J., where he remained until the war broke out 
in 18()1, when he went with his company, being one of the members of 
the Twenty-Second N. J. Regiment of Bergen county. Upon returning 
home from the South Mr. Burdett fitted himself more completelv for 
business by taking a course of instructiim in the College at Poughk-eep- 
sie, N. Y., after which he began carpentry in Fort Lee and vicinity, 
and during the succeeding live or six years erected many houses in this 
part of Bergen county. He built his own residence in 189f>. Mr. Bur- 
dett has also been successfully engaged in the real estate business for 
many years. As a public official he has filled the offices of assessor and 
collector for a number of terms, as will be seen by reference to that 
chapter. He is at the present time collector of the township. 

In 18()S Mr. Burdett was married to Miss Susan Mannix, daughter 
of David Mannix of Fort Lee, and is the father of live children. His 
eldest son, George Burdett, was educated in Manhattan College, and is 
now successfully engaged in the grocery business in Fort Lee. He 
married Miss Ada Dubois. The other children are Catherine. Laura. 
Harry, Lester and (xrace. 

JAJIKS F. TKACFV. 

James F. Tracey, present township Clerk of Ridge field township, 
was born at Fort Lee, Bergen county, N. J.. January 23, 1864. He 
has spent all his life here, where he was educated in the public schools, 
su])plemented Ijv a course of instruction in the parochial School. 

Mr. Tracey is of purely Irish origin, both of his parents having 
been born in Ireland. He takes a lively interest in the affairs of his 
township and has served in the office of township Clerk, to which he was 
elected March 8, 1892, and re-elected March 14, 1893. He was elected 
Justice of the Peace March 13, 1894, and served to May 1, 1899. On 
March 10, 1896, he was again elected township Clerk and was re-elected 
March 14, 1899. He has been secretary of Madonna Benevolent Society 
of Fort Lee, since 1892. In private life Mr. Tracey is engaged in real 
estate and insurance, conducting a profitable business. He has never 
married. 

MAX WVLKK, M. D. 

Dr. Wyler, a young man peculiarly fitted for the profession of 
medicine, is a native of Switzerland. He was born in 18(i4, and was 
educated in his native country, in the cities of Zurich and Berne, taking 
a full course of instruction in the institutions of those cities. From 
Switzerland he went to Germany for further study and research, the 
great centers of learning, Munich, Heidelberg and Wurzburg attracting 
him, in the pursuit of a course of preparation for his proposed profes- 




JAMKS K. TKACKV 



HISTOKY 0>" BER(;EN COUNTY 5\?> 

sional career. After completing his studies in those institutions he 
came to America, first settling- in Burlington, Vermont, but later com- 
ing to New York city, where he entered the Harlem Dispensary for eye, 
ear, throat and nose diseases. In 1892 he located in New York city, and 
remained until 1896, at which time he came to Fort Lee, bought prop- 
erty and is building up a lucrative practice, making a speciality of the 
eye, ear, nose and throat, besides his general pratice. 

Dr. Wyler is a member of the Bergen county Medical Society, and 
of the New York Physicians Mutual Society. He was married in 1895, 
to Miss Miriam Schreiber of New York. 

CHAKI.KS J. HIKI.IMANN. 

Charles J. Hirlimann an expert in electric batteries and a manufac- 
turer of prominence, was born in France, September 1, 1849. Mr. Hirli- 
mann has been a resident of Fort Lee, Bergen county since 1873, 
although his business is located in New York city, at 17 Laight street. 
He is not only a manufacturer but an inventor as well, and during his 
professional career in the United States has made many improvements 
in the "Disque Leclanche Battery," of which he was the first manufac- 
turer in this country. Mr. Hirlimann's batteries have been adopted 
and are in constant use with the Telephone companies. Railroad and 
Steamship companies in the United States, as well as in Canada, Mexico 
and Cuba. The Industrial Academv of Paris, in 1891, awarded him a 
gold medal. The "Electrical Age" of October 17, 189 1 devotes a con- 
siderable space to the "Disque," in which it exhorts the ])ublic to main- 
tain the integritv of this battery a1)i)ve all others. 

In politics Mr. Hirlimann is prominent in Democratic circles. He 
was married June 1, 1885, to Miss Aimee Dubois of New York. He is a 
member of several clubs and organizations, among which are the Circle 
Francaise de I'Harmonie, New York; Mardi Gras, New York and the 
Fort Lee Fire Company. 

JOSKPH SCHLOSSER. 

Joseph Schlosscr. proprietor of the Fort Lee Club House, was born 
in Fort Lee in 1857. His father, Joseph Schlosser, was a native of 
Germany, but was in business in Leonia and Fort Lee the greater part 
of his life. He came to Leonia in 1855, and in 1859 bought the property 
in Fort Lee, afterward converted into a hotel, but which was first used 
for a few years in part as a meat store. The interests in the last named 
business were sold to his brother-in-law, Philip Hook, who moved across 
the street, and where he has been in business since that time. 

Mr. Schlosser then began the manufacturing of stone blocks for 
street paving purposes, and carried on that enterprise successfully for a 
few years. In 1869 he opened the hotel, subsequently making such ad- 
ditions to the house as were necessary for that purpose. Here he re- 
mained until his death, in 1891. 



514 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 



Joseph Schlosser, son and successor to the hotel property, is one of 
six children. His four sisters, Mrs. Bcnecke. Mrs. Cherny, Mrs. Heft 
and Mrs. Saita, all live in Fort Lee. 

While Mr. Schlosser has confined his attentions wholly to business. 
he is nevertheless, a public spirited citizen, and has frequently been 
called into positions of honor and public trust. He was a member ot 
the Township Committee from 1889 to i897, and was appointed m Janu- 
ary 1898 as a member of that body to fill out an unexpired term. He is 
a member of the Pioneer Lodge, F. and A. M„ of Hackensack, and a 
charter member of the Fort Lee Fire Department, and is treasurer of 
the company. He also belongs to various other organizations. 

KIDGEFIELD PARK. 

Althouo-h Ridgefield Park began to attract the notice of land specu- 
litors as far back as 1870 when the Ridgefield Land Company parcelled 
a secti.m of the town into building lots and sold them at what is even 
now looked upon as high prices, it was not until ten years ago that the 
home builder put in his appearance. Soon the little ridge midway 
between Hackensack and the Palisades caught the infection and devel- 
oped into a community of commuters. Speaking of commuters, Morti- 
mer Smith and Peter Kenny deserve mention as the oldest. They for- 
merly went to New York by way of the Northern Railroad at Leonia 
three miles away. Mr. Kenny died two years ago; Mr. Smith is still 
travellin<^ every day, but has the pleasure of using the New York, Sus- 
quehanna and Western at Ridgefield Park. He collected over two hun- 
dred dollars to build this station, and speaks with pride of his efforts to 

establish it. .-•,,, t 

With the advent of the home builder and his benehcient help mate, 
(The Building Association), came a demand for better and more modern 
improvements. It was thought that the old township form of govern- 
ment run exclusively by the politicians of Fort Lee, or those under 
their'direction, was inadequate for the needs of this growing hamlet, 
and soon a question of change was agitated. The good offices of Sena- 
tor Winton were obtained and he framed a law which was called the 
"Winton Act" and under which Ridgefield Park was incorporated as a 
villao-e m the summer of 1892. Many, however, thought this form of 
o-overnment was not suitable as the vote by the people was eighty-four 
Tn favor and sixty-two against. The interest in the first primary, how- 
ever was intense, twenty-three candidates for village trustees being 
nominated, while only five were to be elected. The village Board met 
at the residence of Thomas M. Brewster on July U, 1892. They were 
Andrew (xaul. Dr. Ad<ilph Dexheimer, Thomas M. Brewster, John W. 
O'Brien and John A. Crandall. Andrew Gaul was elected the first 
,,resident of the village; Dr. Adolph Dexheimer its first treasurer; 
Joseph \. Behan, clerk; and James A. Stratton, superintendent. The 
Board decided that eight hundred dollars would be sufficient for current 
expenses and ordered the Assessor to levy that amount. The tax offi- 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 515 



cials were still cdntrdlled l>y Kidy^efa-ld tdwiisliip. Ridj^otield Park was 
not entirely out of its g:rasi). At the Spring election of 18'»3 George E. 
Helm was elected to succeed John A. Crandall whose time had expired. 
John E. Ht)ey was appointed clerk. Owing to a lack of funds very little 
work was done during the first year. During 1893 nearly all the streets 
were dedicated and made public thoroughfares, the exception being 
those in the northern section, known as Westview. Garden Street was 
cut through to Brinkerhoff Street making a much nearer outlet from the 
southern end of the village. The grade map was made bv Williams 
Brothers. 

On March 12. 1S'I4, Mr. O'Brien introduced the first sidewalk ordi- 
nance, providing for Central Avenue between First and Fourth Streets. 

In tlie Spring of 1S94 a complete change was made in the personel 
of the Board, the terms of Messrs. Gaul and Dexheimer expiring. Mr. 
Gaul was re-elected, but Dr. Dexheimer was not a candidate, while W. 
H. Hobart was elected after a very close and exciting' contest. Three 
or four votes would have turned the election either way. After election 
day four citizens were indicted for alleged illegal voting but were sub- 
sequently released the indictments having been quashed for lack of evi- 
dence. Mr. Hobart was elected president of the Board; George E. 
Helm, treasurer, and Joseph A. Behan, clerk. From that time bitter 
feeling among tlie citizens sprung up and resulted in two factions, both 
evenly dividing the two great parties. One was the Brewster and the 
other the O'Brien faction, both Democrats. Messrs. Brewster and 
O'Brien retired from the Board of Trustees on April 9, 1895, and were 
succeeded by John H. Ficken and Milo H. Morgan. Mr. Hobart con- 
tinued to be president but Mr. Ficken assumed the office of treasurer. 
Nothing of particular interest occurred during 1895. George E. Helm 
was re-elected village trustee at the Spring election, 1S9(), for three 
years, and Alfred W. Price supplanted Joseph A. Behan as Clerk of the 
Board. After a few months Mr. Helm objected to the methods of the 
Street Superintendent and with the assistance of Messrs. Morgan and 
Gaul dismissed Thomas Marshall and installed Thomas R. Lindley in 
his place. Mr. Price then came under the ban and was removed, Mr. 
Behan taking his place. These changes caused a bitter feeling and Mr. 
Helm was roundly denounced by some of the citizens. One of the vil- 
lage notes went to protest through lack of harmony in the Board, and 
an indignation meeting was called which was largely attended. The 
Board was censured for its indifference to the credit and reputation of 
the village. The legislature of 1S9() and 18')7 passed an Act making 
Ridgefield Park a township, which was called Overpeck, thus taking 
the village out of the semi-control of Fort Lee. The new law did not 
interfere with the village government. A snag was struck later, how- 
ever, when the village trustees endeavored to make a settlement with 
Ridgefield township. The latter's town committee refused to recognize 
the trustees; a mandamus was applied for but the Supreme Court decided 
against Ridgefield Park. The fact that Ridgewood was a village in a 



516 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

township was cited, but Ridgewood had no settlements to make with 
other townships, and the right of a village trustee, to be a town com- 
mitteeman without election to that office was disputed successfully. 
The village was not declared illegal as some believed, but it was neces- 
sary to have a town committee to transact business, which the law did 
not confer on the village trustees. Thus it came later that trustees and 
committeemen were elected. Frank C. Lowe and John L. Oberg were 
elected trustees March, 1897, with the remaining township officers neces- 
sary to transact business. Mr. Oberg held office as trustee for one 
year. In March, 1898, D. S. Servoss was elected trustee for two years; 
W. N. Schwab and Hugh Innes each for three years. They were also 
elected township committeemen. W. A. Wilcox is the township clerk 
elected in 1897. 

Practically all the business is transacted by the Village Board, and 
since the new board was installed the streets have been lighted by elec- 
tricity; gas mains are in nearly four miles of street, and two miles of 
new sidewalks have been laid, with no village bonded indebtedness. 
We have sprung from a hamlet of a few families to a population of 
nearly two thousand five hundred in ten years. Over five hundred chil- 
dren are on the school census rolls. Two schools with nine teachers, 
six churches, two railroads, and other virtues too numerous to mention. 

The first Board of Education in the township of Overpeck consisted 
of Conrad W. Mergler, H. W. Brewster, John E. Hoey, P. W. Johnson, 
Adolph Dexheimer, F. C. Lowe, E. S. Ferris, Carl Damcke and C. 
Oberg. The first meeting of the new board was held at the school 
house on April b, 1897, when they elected Conrad W. Mergler president, 
and John E. Hoey district clerk, immediately proceeding to a final ad- 
justment of details incident to the new conditions. 

On account of the overcrowded condition of the one school in the 
township, a building had been secured from the district known as West- 
view, which was made to serve the purpose until the completion of the 
new building, then in process of erection. This house, built at a cost 
of six thousand five hundred dollars, was dedicated September 6, 1897. 
The enrollment at this time in School No. 1 was two hundred and fifty, 
and in School No. 2 one hundred and forty. 

In March, 1898, a new board was elected as follows: John E. Hoey, 
Conrad W. Mergler, H. N. Brewster, Carl Damcke, P. W. Johnson, 
James M. Shourt, William F. Dowell, Jesse Gregory and Alfred Price. 
John E. Hoey was made president and Conrad W. Mergler district clerk. 

The present board (1899) consists of John E. Hoey, president; 
William F. Dowell, district clerk; Louis Weiss, Samuel J. Shaw, H. 
M. Brewster, Carl Damcke, P. W. Johnson, James M. Shourt, Conrad 
W. Mergler. 

The total enrollment of the schools in Overpeck township at present 
is four hundred and eighty. 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 517 

KIKE nEPAKTMEXT OK KIDC.KFIKI.D PAKK. 

Althouifh organized in 1892 it was not until March 2, 18%, that the 
Ridg-efield Park Hose Company, No. 1, and Friendship Hook and Lad- 
der Company were brought into department form, and put under 
control of the Board of Village Trustees, which enacted an ordinance 
creating the offices of Chief and Assistant Chief Engineers, and formu- 
lated rules and regulations for the government of the newly made fire 
department. The first officers elected were: Fred A. Lyman and Charles 
M. Brewster. The following year Mr. Brewster was promoted to Chief; 
and Mr. A. E. Innes, D. A. Christie, Samuel J. Shaw and E. S. Carr 
have since served as chief and assistant chiefs. 

On August 15, 189'). E. S. Carr and John E. Hoey v.^ere elected lor 
the ensuing year. 

KIK'KMEN's KELIKK ASSOCIATION. 

Firemen's Relief Association was organized April 22, 18'I5. This 
organization is managed by a "Board of Representatives" elected 
annually from the two companies. This board provides out of the fund 
furnished by the state, for members who are sick or disabled. They 
also elected delegates to the State Firemen's Convention, held an- 
nually. 

KIDOEKIHI.D PAI'fK HOSE COMPANY NO. 1. 

Ridgefield Park Hose Company No. 1 formed a temporary organi- 
zation on December "I, 1,S91. enrolling fifty citizens who agreed to become 
volunteer firemen, A ])ermanent organization was effected February 
10, 1892, with the following officers: President, C. W. Calloway; Vice 
President, W. H. Robert; Secretary, J. H. Ficken; Treasurer, J. A. 
Behan; Foreman, F. S. Sturgis; Assistant Foreman, F. H. Rudol])h; 
Trustees, C. \V. Mergler, C. \V. Reinhart and J. A. Crandall. 

The event leading to the formation of the Hose Company, was the 
burning, one ■night, of the dwellings of Messrs Reinhart, Henderson 
and Enders. on Preston Street. The entire population turned out to see 
the blaze, but owing to a lack of proper facilities, were unable to sub- 
due the flames. 

Since March 2, 189(), the Board of Trustees have, among other 
things, provided a Jum])er and two hundred and fifty feet of hose, which 
with a first class Hook and Ladder Company, insure protection to the 
town. 

I'KIENDSniP HOOK AND LADDEK COMPANY. 

The Friendship Hot)k and Ladder Company was organized February 
22, 1892, with twenty members and was incorporated on April 5th of 
the same year. The officers elected were: President, A. P. Carpenter; 
Vice President, E. S. Carr; 'Secretary, Isaac B. Winn; Treasurer, M. T. 
Brewster; Foreman, C. K. Brewster; assistant Foreman, Austin Wolf; 
Trustees, E. M. Lemarie, James T. Donnelly, D. A. Christie. A hook 
and ladder truck having been procured the company was ready for 
business. 



518 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 



The C(>mpaii\- set to work to secure funds to build a house, and 
have now a commodious home on Garden Street. The membership 
numbers twenty-seven, and that of the Hose Company twenty-eight. 
In the department are men prominent in all the walks of life, and 
from its inception has made itself felt in local affairs. 

UNION CHI'KCH. 

This church owes its orig'in to Mrs. E. W. Barnes, a daughter of 
Mortimer Smith, in whose parlors a Sunday School was opened in 1SS4. 
From this small beginning- came the congregation, which is apparently 
doing a good work. Organizing in 18'J0, thev built their house of 
worship in 1891 and dedicated it the following year, the present pastor 
being installed June 4. 1893. This church has now a membership of 
one hundred and fifty, is non-sectarian, and supports two Sunday 
Schools of about three hundred scholars, a Young People's Society 




UNION CHUKCH 

of Christian Endeavor of fifty members, a Ladies' Society of sixty 
and a Junior Endeavor Society, of ninety, educating two of its 
members in schools. They also publish the "Union Herald," — a 
monthl}- paper — support a " Winter Night College," a "Penny Bank" 
and a Boys' Athletic Club and Fife and Drum Corps. 

The pastor of this church. Rev. Allan MacNeill, is of Scotch and 
English parentage. On the paternal side he is of Scotch descent, 
while his maternal ancestors are English. He was born on Prince 
Edward's Island, August 22, 1860, and was educated in Prince Edward's 
Island public schools, and in the night schools, and Denver High School. 
He then took a course in Amherst College, after which he entered Union 
Theological Seminary, where he studied for his professional career, 
finishing his school work with Post Graduate studies in the University 
of New York. He was graduated from the Seminary immediately pre- 
ceediuu: his installation in 1S<*3. 



HISTORY OF BEKOEN COUNTY 519 

Mr. MacNeill is president of tlie Public Library Association; a 
member of the Reading Club; of the Athletic Club; and of the Society 
of Comparative Relig-ions, being- also president of the Township Sun- 
day School Association. 

Mr. MacNeill married Miss Fanny Pomeroy Cutter, of Amherst, 
Massachusetts. 

THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHl'KCH. 

The Methodist Episcopal Church of Ridgefield Park, is the result of 
a service looking to the formation of a church of this denomination, 
held in Republican Club Hall, November !(., IS'io. At this meeting 
Rev. J. R. Daniels of Hackensack preached to about fifty people. A 
Sabbath school was organized soon after, and March '», 1891 the church 
was regularly incorporated under the laws of the State of New Jersey. 
The first regular preacher was Mr. C. E. Schenck, from Drew Theologi- 
cal Seminary. A Ladies' Aid Society was an early helper financially. 
After incorporation, the subject of a church building was discussed, 
when the Board of Trustees appointed a committee to select a site. 
Two lots, previously donated were sold and the proceeds ajjplied toward 
the purchase of more suitable ground, upon which a church was built 
and the same dedicated on July 7, 1895. The present pastor. Rev. 
Alfred Evans, resides at Ridgefield Park. He was graduated from 
Drew Seminery in the class of 1893. 

ST. KKAN'CIS' KO.MAN CATHOLIC CHI-RCH. 

The first church edifice erected in Ridgefield Park wa.s that of St. 
Francis. 

The Catholics of the Park having met nn February 24. 1S,S'(, formed 
themselves into what was called the St I'^rancis Association, for the 
purpose of devising means to build a church. Plans were adopted, 
means secured, and the building begun immediately, the corner-stone 
being laid on Thanksgiving Day, November 28th of that year. The 
work was carried forward without delay and on July 27, 1890, the church 
was dedicated. The first pastor. Rev. John F. Duffy, took charge on 
August 3, continuing until November 14, when he was succeeded by 
Rev. J. Russell. Pastor Russell remained until March 25. 1891, and 
was followed by Rev. John Hennes who had pastoral charge until March 
15, 1892, when the present pastor the Rev. John E. Lambert assumed 
the care of the little flock. 

The niombershii) at present numbers about fifty families or two 
hundred and fifty souls. 

Rev. John E. Lambert was born in Pliiladeljjhia Fel)ruarv 2(1, 18(.4. 
and received his Parochial school education in that city, graduating 
from the grammar department. He then took a classical course in St. 
John's College, Brooklyn, N. Y., and was graduated from that institu- 
tion in 1885. After pursuing theological studies in Seton Hall at South 
Orange, N. J., for a time, he went to Genoa, Italy, continuing his 
studies in that city for a period of four years, subsequently completing 



520 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

his course in theolog'y at the University of Innsbruck, in the Tyrol 
(Austria), and was ordained by the Archbishop of Brixen (Tyrol), 
July 28, 1890. 

Returning- to America Rev. Mr. Lambert became assistant at St. 
Peter's, Newark, N. J., until March 25, 18')2. Since then he has been 
pastor in lower Hackensack and Ridgetield Park. 

HOTELS. 

There are three hotels in Ridgefield Park. The one at Little Ferry 
was erected by Michael J. Collins in 1893 at a cf)st of seven thousand 
dollars and serves the travelling- public to a considerable extent as a 
depot, there being no suitable accommodations provided by the railroad 
company at that place. 

Mr. Collins has conducted hotels during the most of his business 
career. He was born fifty-three 3'ears ago in Ireland and came direct from 
Mayo, the people of which province are among the most hospitable in 
the world. His father was a farmer. His parents both died when he 
was a youth, and he then sailed for this country landing in New York 
city, where he served tirst as an orderlie in a hospital for sixteen years, 
then for nineteen years in the hotel business at 59 West Street. He 
came to Ridgefield Park in 189.i. 

MOKTIMEK SMITH. 

Among the residents of this part of the old townshi]) of Ridgelield 
should be mentioned the name of Mr. Mortimer Smith, of Teaneck 
Ridge, who has been living here for the past thirt)^ years. Mr. Smith 
is a native of the city of New York, where he has maintained business 
relations with two of the old insurance companies for over forty years. 
He was with the Gebhard Fire Insurance Company, as an appraiser, 
twenty-one years, and has now been with the New York Life Insurance 
Company in the same capacity over twenty years. 

Mr. Smith has a life membership in the National Academy of De- 
sign, having been a fellow of that institution since 1860. He is a lover 
of fine art, a man of public spirit, interested in all charitable and 
benevolent work, and one of the founders of the Ridgefield Park Free 
Public Library. 

THE OLD CHKLSTIE HOMESTE.\n. 

This home, prior to November hth, 1844, belonged t() the farm of 
Paul Paulison, at which time it was conveyed by commissioners H. 
W. Banta, David D. Demarest and William DeWolfe, to David Christie 
of English Neighborhood for his stm Albert, and upon his death in 1848, 
Albert became absolute owner and lived there until his father's death 
in 1887 or '88. All his family of nine children were born there, but 
since his death the family have removed to a new residence on another 
part of the farm. The house was presumably built by Paul Paulison, 
and is no doubt nearly if not quite two hundred years old. 



524 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

CORNELIUS CHRISTIE. 

Cornelius Christie, train master for the West Shore Railroad at 
Weehawken, N. J., is distinctively a railroad man, having- spent his entire 
business life in that line. His grandfather, David Christie, upon his mar- 
riage to Anna Brinkerhoff, removed to New York city, where he accum- 
lated a fortune in his trade of stone cutting, and in 1835, bought the 
farm of Garret Meyer at English Neighborhood and retired from busi- 
ness. His son, Albert Brinkerhoff Christie, the father of Cornelius, 
went to Ridgfield Park about 1830 where he died in 1888, nearly seventy 
years of age. His wife who was Miss Lydia Ann Christie (not a 
relative ) died in 18'}6 at the age of seventy-two. 

Cornelius Christie was born at Ridgetield Park September 24, 18r)4, 
and was educated in the public schools. He was graduated from Washing- 
ton Public School, No. 32, Hackensack, in July 1881. Beginning business 
as a telegraph operator in the office of the New York, Susquehanna & 
Western Railroad, in May 1881 he continued in their employ until June 
4, 1883. At this date he entered the office of the West Shore Railroad 
Company as telegraph operator and so continued until March 1888 when 
he was promoted to the position of train dispatcher, which he held until 
April 1, 1895, when by a second promotion.be became trainmaster. Mr. 
Christie has about five hundred men under his supervision, directly and 
indirectly, more than half of whom may trace their examination, disci- 
pline and employment to his management, conductors, brakenian and 
baggagemen all coming under his surveilliance. 

Mr. Christie was married October 12, 1898, to Miss Selena Wells of 
Goshen, N. Y., only daughter of J. E. Wells, for many years Super- 
visor of the Town of Goshen and also general superintendent of the 
Orange county Agricultural Society. The bridal trip of Mr. and Mrs. 
Christie extended over nine thousand miles of travel throughout the 
Western States. In this long trip thej' never passed over the same 
road a second time between any two points. 

ALBERT RAVEKES. 

Among the names of those who have become identified with the 
growth and prosperity of the village of Ridgefield Park, is that of 
Albert Ravekes, which stands prominent among the first of those, in 
this part of Ridgefield township. Mr. Ravekes is a native of New York 
city where he was born fifty-six years ago. He attended school in that 
city until eleven years of age, and then began a business career. In 
1857 he became ai)prenticed to the carpenter trade, an occupation which 
he has successfully followed ever since, having had his offices at one 
place on Mulberry Street, New York, forty-two years. 

In 1885 Mr. Ravekes removed to Hackensack, N. J., but the year 
following he moved to Ridgefield Park where he erected a beautiful 
home and is surrounded bv his married children, who also occupy homes 
ot their own. 



526 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

Before the incorporation of the village of Ridgefield Park Mr. 
Ravekes served his township as committeeman for six years, having 
been the first representative of the western district elected to that posi- 
tion, serving as treasurer of the township at the same time. The duties 
incident to a large business interest, however, prevented him from serv- 
ing further in any politicial capacity, nevertheless, he has been kept 
foremost in various other positions before the people. He is president 
of the Sherwood Land and Improvement Company and also president of 
the Ridgeiield Park Town Hall Company. He has been president of the 
Ridgetield Boat Club during the past five years. Among the fraternal 
organizations, he is Past Regent of the Ridgefield Park Council Royal 
Arcanum No. 1428; member of the Masonic Order, of which both he and 
his son Oliver have taken the highest degrees, while they are also 
members of the Mystic Shrine. 

Mr. Ravekes has been a liberal contributor to all the churches in 
Ridgefield Park; was one of the promoters of the village organization, 
and has been identified with all its interests since its incorporation. 

JOHN H. FICKEN. 

JohnH. Ficken, cashier for Charles H. Zinn, of New York, was born 
in the city of New York in February, 1858, where he was educated in the 
public schools. Upon leaving school Mr. Ficken became connected with a 
commercial house in the city, holding responsible positions continuously 
since that time, first in the tea and coffee business, and then, for twelve 
years, in the cotton trade. The past nine years have been spent in his 
present position. In 1883 he married Miss Annie S. Beaven, of Brook- 
lyn, N. Y., and since then has resided in Ridgefield Park, where he has 
been prominently identified with the living issues of that village, hav- 
ing been treasurer from 1894 to 1897, and a member of the School Board 
appointed when the present law went into effect in 1894. He was a 
charter member of the Royal Arcanum, and has also held the offices of 
secretary, vice-president and president of the Fire Department, holding 
each office for a term of two years. He is a trustee and assistant 
treasurer of the Union Church, Ridgefield Park, besides being prominent 
in other organizations. 

CHARLES W. CAI.LOW.W. 

Charles W. Calloway, private secretary to Mr. J. P. Morgan, 
Banker, New York, is a native of the Isle of Wight, England, and was 
born forty-seven years ago. He is the son of George Calloway, who 
died in 1898, at the age of seventv-nine vears, having been an officer in 
the British nav}- for nearly a half century. 

Mr. Calloway graduated in 1865 and after several years of mercan- 
tile life in Buenos Ayres and the Island of Ceylon, became connected 
with the house of J. P. Morgan & Co., reaching New York in 1879. 
being the onlj' one of his family who ever came to this country. 

Mr. Calloway married Miss Maud Glover of Brooklyn, a lineal 
descendant of (General Burgoyne of Revolutionary fame. In ISS') Mr. 




C-^Cc^-eo^ ,/^^! ^<:x-g-/z ^^ 



HISTOKY l)K BKKGEN COUNTY 52't 

Calloway took up his residence in Rid^etield Park. His son Alfred 
Calloway is superintendent of the Rochester & Pittsburg- Coal Com- 
pany, at Adrian, Pa., and Ernest Evelyn, a second son, is assistant 
cashier for Price McCormick & Co., Bankers and Brokers, New York. 

CONK.\D WILLI.\M MERGLEK. 

Conrad William Mergler, is of American birth and education. His 
ancestors in the paternal line are purely German, while the maternal 
line is French, making- a good union of the stolid, plodding German 
temperament with the mercurial French spirit. Mr. Mergler is himself 
a good illustration of this combination especially in his business enter- 
prise. Coming to Ridgefield Park in 1887 with but a meagre sum as 
capital, he had a fund of "energy and pluck," which no doubt were the 
chief powers in securing his success. 

Mr. Mergler is the son of Jacob Mergler, whose father was Philip. 
His mother was Elsie Archard, a direct descendant of a P^rench Hugue- 
not family who in the time of Catherine de Medici, fled from France to 
(iermany, where they made a home prior to their emigration to America. 

Conrad W., was born in New York city February 5, 18()1, and was 
educated in the public schools of that city, afterward taking a course in 
civil engineering, in Cooper Institute. In 1888, with a capital stock of 
fifty dollars, and in a room twelve b}- thirteen feet in dimensions, this 
young man started to build up his fortune. Faithful attentitm to busi- 
ness and continuity of purpose have gained success. He has not only 
made a home for himself, but has helped build up the village. What 
was formerly a bog, is now one of the finest corners in the town, a hand- 
some store covering eighteen hundred square feet and holding a stock 
of goods valued at not less than five thousand dollars, adorns the spot. 

In 1888 Mr. Mergler was appointed postmaster, continuing in the 
office four years; he was elected member of the local Board of Education 
in 1S8'», being re-elected four times since, and holding the office at the 
present time. He is a charter member of local council of the Royal 
Arcanum; member of Pioneer Lodge, Free Masons, Hackensack; mem- 
ber of New Jersey Sovereign Consistory Scottish Rite F. M. and of Kis- 
muth Temple Mystic Shrine, Brooklyn. He is president of the local 
Building Association, re-elected three times, and also charter member 
of local Fire Department. 

Mr. Mergler married Miss I,ouise Rech of New York city. 

JOHN EDW.\KD HOEY. 

John Edward Hoey, a progressive citii,en of Ridgefield Park, was 
born in the city of Philadelphia, September <>, 1S(>(., receiving a com- 
mon school education in his native place. 

In 1890 Mr. Hoe^- came to Ridgefield Park for the ])urpose of mak- 
ing it his home, and immediately becoming identified -with all the 
interests of the village, political, social and religious, has ever since 
taken an active part in its development and growth. In 18')4 he was 
ap])(>inte(l \illage clerk serving one term, and was subsequently in l<S'i(i, 



530 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

elected member of the Board of Education of Ridg'efield to\vnship, which 
embraced several communities including' Coytesville, Leonia Heights, 
Palisades Park and Ridgetield Park. Upon the organization of the 
board he was elected district clerk, serving until 1897, when bj- an Act 
of the Legislature, Ridgefield Park was made the township of Over- 
peck. He was then appointed district clerk bv Superintendent John 
Terhune, to serve until the regular election of 1898, at which time he 
was elected for a term of three years. In the same year (1898), he 
was chosen president of the Board of Education and re-elected in 1899. 
Mr. Hoey acted in the capacity of village clerk during the fiscal year 
of 1898 and 1899, and while district clerk of Ridgetield township took 
an active part in the erection of the new school building at Westview, 
being chairman of the committee on site, and subsequently on dedica- 
tion. He also helped organize and became a charter member of Ridge- 
field Park Hose Company No. 1 in 1892, and also of the Royal Arcanum 
Council No. 1428, organized in the same year. Mr. Hoey is president 
of the Hose Companj-; trustee of the Royal Arcanum and assistant 
chief of the Fire Department of Ridgefield Park. 

ANDREW GAUL. 

Andrew Gaul, first president of the village of Ridgefield Park, is a 
native of Hudson, Columbia county, N. Y., and was born fifty-two years 
ago. His father John H. Gaul, was a prominent merchant in that 
county. 

Mr. Gaul received an academic education and then selected the busi- 
ness of eng-ineer for his future career. His license dated from 1868 and 
his field of labor covered the rivers of the American continent and its 
coasts, trading on the Atlantic in all kinds of vessels, in which a valu- 
able experience was gained which fitted him for the position he now 
holds. One of the first vessels on which he served as fireman was the 
dispatch boat Greyhound carrying dispatches from the seat of war to 
Jamestown Island whence they were wired to Washington. 

He began as assistant engineer on the steamship Ladona, a vessel 
plying between New York, New Orleans and Havana, and was subse- 
quently advanced to the position of chief engineer. After an experience 
of nearlv thirty years he was commissioned in 1897 United States 
Inspector of Steam Vessels, which position he holds at the present time. 

Mr. Gaul was married to Elizabeth Smith of New York city in 1873. 
In 1889 he moved to Ridgefield Park, since which time he has borne his 
share of political responsibilities. He became one of the promoters of 
the villag-e government; was its first president, and served two terms as 
trustee on the village board. His eldest son, Andrew Gaul, Jr., is 
cashier for Johnson & Wood, brokers New York, and is also doing a 
brokerage business on his own account. John, the next son entered ser- 
vice in the Cuban war, stationed in the hospital ship, "Missouri," 
returning' to his home in perfect health, but died a few days afterward. 
Rav, Anniedeal and Alexander complete the names of the other mem- 
bers of the familv. 




OVEKPKCK I'AKK, HOTEL AND LAKE -L. A. EICHEK. I'KOP. 



CHAPTKR XXVIII. 
BOROUGHS OF OLD RIDGEPIKLD TOWNSHIP 

KIDC,KFIELD-1--AIKVIK%V-PALI.:ADES PAKK-l-EONIA-^rNDEKCLIFF. 

BOGOTA. 

KIDGEFIELD BOROUGH. 

The vilhicre of Ridyetield is situated on the New Jersey and North- 
ern Railroad t'en miles from New York and is the center ot what was 
known as English Neighborhood. ,^. ■ • 

Many En^rlish people had settled in this locality, hence the origin 
of the name. The old stone church standing just west of Ridgewood 
depot, erected in 1768, is a memento of former years. There is also in 
the village an Episcopalian church, a hotel, two stores and a town hall. 
The borough has a population of about six hundred. 

STOKES. 

Samuel DeGroot built the first store in Ridgelield in 1875, and 
which is now occupied by A. M. Lemm. This building was hrst occu- 
pied by Mr. DeGroot, then by his stepson, Mr. Lozier, after whom came 
W G Christie, and, in 1877, John Brinkerhoff began business. In 
1888 he sold to Christie & Ackerman who disposed of the propertyto 
W B Pu.rh in 18S1. Mr. Pugh came to the village a few years prior 
to 'this time continuing to occupy this store until 1895, when he opened 
his present office since which time many sales of real estate have been 
effected by him. He was the first mayor of Rulgefield elected to that 
office which he held two terms. He was a freeholder of the town from 
18<K. 'to IS'X) A. M. Lemm, the present owner of the store, and the 
postmaster of the village, began business here in October 1895, 

Mr Lemn is a member of the Building and Loan Association, of 
the Board of Health, also of the Fire Department of Ridgeheld, and 
belono-s to a number of clubs and societies. Frank A. Kiel began busi- 
ness in Rido-efield in 1889. At that time he erected a building adj.nnmg 
the'one he now occupies, and kept a barber shop and stationery store. 
Three years later he built his present store and carries meat and gro- 
ceries. ■ He also owns a store in Hasbrouck Heights. He was b,.rn m 
Beru-en county in 1859. 

The borou-h of Ridgefield was incorporated May 26, 1892. Peter 
Hall was the first mayor. The first councilmen were as follows: N. 
Jacobus, W. H. Goodday, D. \^Bro%yer, J. V. Banta, W. B. Pugh, E. 
H Piatt J R. Beam, E. B. Meyrowitz. George S. Wood, borough 
clerk- s" E. DeGroot, collector; Frederick G. Bennett, assessor. 

W B Puo-h was elected Mayor and held the office two terms, being 
followed by the present officers, Alexander A Shaler, Mayor; J^\. 
Banta, Charles E. Boardman, Charles Englehardt, James E. Maxfield, 
I K Cotton P. A. Meserole, Council; C. B. Wilson. Borough Clerk: 



HISTORY OF BKKGKN COUNTY 



53.^ 



Board of Health, Marion A. Lemin, Dr. B. F. Underwood, W. H. 
Rueckart, James Mc(iill. 

The Reformed Church of the English Neig-hborhood can only trace 
its written history to a few years prior to the Reyolutionarv war, the 
records of the most interestingf period of its existence haying- been lost. 

The two churches, located at Hackensack and Bergen Hill, respec- 
tively, were the easiest of access from this part of the county. The 
church at Hackensack called the "Church on the Green," was attended 
by many of the settlers at English Neighborhood, prior to 17().S, when 
on Noyember IS, a meeting was called and steps taken toward the erec- 
tion of a church at this place. The records of the society of this date, 
contain this entry: 

■'English Neighborliood. in the County of Bergen and I'roxmce of 
New Jersey. Noyember ISth, Anno. Uom. 17()S. 



# 






. B|^ 



-i-i 33 -. n 




"As Mr. Thomas Moore has conveyed to us. the underwitfen trus- 
tees, one acre of land, on ])ur])ose that we sliould erect a church on it 
agreeable to the constitution of Thirteenth .Reformed Church of Hol- 
land, established by the National Synod of Dort ; and as the minister, 
elders, and deacons, and also the members and all their successors, which 
shall be elected, appointed, and established in the said church, now act- 
ually building in the English Neighbourhood, are to be conformed to the 
doctrine, discipline, and worship established in the United Proyinces by 
the National Synod of Dort aforesaid, we promise according to engage- 
ment toendeayour that such minister, elders, deacons, and members shall 
now be called and appointed in said church ; we all pnmiise that we will 
keep out of the debate that is now between Coetus and Conferentie as 
much as in us lies, and we will indeayoiir to liye in Christian peace with 



534 HISTOKY OK BEKGEN COUNTY 

both parties, as we have agreed from the first, on purpose that all the 
inhabitants of the English Neighbourhood and members of the said 
church may live in peace and love among themselves and others, for a 
divided house must fall, but a well united house or church shall stand. 

"(Signed), 

" Abkaha.m Moxtanv, Michaki, Mooke, 

"Stephen Boukdktt, Thomas Mooke, 

"John Day, John Mooke." 

The strife between Coetus and Conferentie was disturbing the 
Church at this time and in this new organization its members sought to 
avoid as much as possible a discussion of these questions, the record 
stating that: 

"The people of the English Neighbourhood, being unanimous, 
agreed to erect a congregation, and having thus accomplished their 
desire and intention, they proceeded by a free vote of the people to call 
Mr. Garret Lydecker, then Candidate of Divinity, who, having accepted 
their call, was ordained and installed in the congregation by Dominies 
Ritzma and Vanderlinden, in the year one thousand seven hundred and 
seventy, and in the said year the consistory, to wit, Abraham Montany 
and Michael Moore, elders, and John Day and John Lozier, deacons, 
were elected and constituted by Abraham Day, form Hackensack con- 
gregation, and Dominus Garret Lydecker." 

The record also adds this entr^-, 

"N. H. The above is a small statement of the building of the 
church and of organizing the congregation. The congregation being 
deficient, on account of Dominus Lydecker removing in the year one 
thousand seven hundred and seventy-six from this congregation to New 
York, who at that time took with him all the papers and writings 
belonging to the congregation, from the time of his removal we were 
destitute of the preaching of the gospel, excepting some temporary sup- 
plies which different ministers favored us with, until the year one thou- 
sand seven hundred and ninety-two. The consistory, in behalf of the 
congregation, entered into a combination with the congregation of 
Bergen to call John Cornelinson, their present candidate, who accepted 
our call, and was ordained and installed in the church of Bergen by 
Dominus Froeligh, Lansen, old Dominus Cooper, and son. W. Cooper, 
on the 26th day of May, in the year of our I^ord one thousand seven 
hundred and ninety-three." 

The Rev. Gerrardus I^ydecker referred to above went with the 
Tories in the Revolution. After officiating for a time in the Dutch 
Church in New York city, he went to England, and died at the house of 
his son at Pentonville. at the age of seventy-five years. A record dated 
July 1. 1770, says: 

"Then were constituted members of the Reformed Dutch Church in 
the congregation of the English Neighborhood the following persons 
after due examination, viz.: Michael Moore, Abraham Montany, John 
Lashier. John Day, David Dav, Thomas Moore, Edward Bylestead, 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 535 

Samuel Moore, Benjamin Bourdette. John Cahy (and nine females). At 
the same time were nominated and chosen Michael Moore and Abraham 
Montana as elders, and John Day and John Lashier as deacons of the 
aforesaid congreg-ation. (Tarret Lydecker, V. D. M., examined the 
above named persons and nominated the aforesaid members of the 
consistory. 

During these times of strife this church was sixteen years without 
a pastor, the Rev. John Cornelison (spelled Cornelinson in the church 
record ) was called to this church, November 28. 17'J2, and on May 2(), 
following was ordained and installed pastor of this church and the 
church at Bergen, by Revs. S. Warmoldus Kuypers, William Prevoost 
Kuypers, Nicholas Lansing and Sohmion Froeligh. Only one-third of 
Mr. Cornelison's time could be devoted to this church, and service in 
Dutch was only occasional. In 17'J3 a new church was built, but before 
a new (rae was begun the following document was issued, apparently as 
a precautionary measure: "That Catharine, widow of Michael Moore, 
deceased, and Michael, Jacob, and Samuel Moore, his sons, gave full 
jiower to the elders and deacons for building up or pulling down or 
removing the (old) church without any molestation from them or any 
person claiming under them." Subscriptions came in freely, the highest 
amount subscribed being twenty-five pounds and the lowest, two shil- 
lings. The subscribers were to be credited pro tiiiito in purchasing 
pews. Everything was planned in detail as the description here given 
will show: "Plan for building the Reformed Dutch Church of the 
English Neighborhood, 17'»3: 

"Whereas, The Elders and Deacons of the Reformed Dutch Church 
of the English Neighborhood, in the county of Bergen and state of 
New Jersey having long seen the necessity of having a place of public 
worship, having by C(msent, and it also appearing to be their right, 
thought most beneficial to the said congregation to pull down the old 
church, and have laid a plan to build and erect a new one in a more 
pro])er jjlace. and 

"Whereas, It has pleased the Omnipotent Disposer of I'ublic 
Events to bless the land with peace and plenty, and we also, wishing 
harmony in the said congregation having, with the advice of our min- 
ister and the congregation in general in the fear of the Lord, to ])ro- 
ceed in building said church according' to the following- plan: 

I. " The place proposed is to be on the Point Field west of an apple 
tree, and according to the following dimensions, viz: 40 feet wide bv 52 
feet long, and with two ' gallerevs.' 

II. "The stone and timber to be brought on the ground free gratis, 
and no money to be paid out unless it be for ' meteriels' until the car- 
penters' and masons' work is begun. 

III. "The following persons are appointed 'managers:' Messrs. 
Cornelius ^'reelandt, (iarret Banta, John Williams, John Dav, Rinier 
Earl and Samuel Edsall, whose business it shall be to engage workmen 



536 HISTORY OK BEKGEN COUNTY 

and lalxirors, procuri.- ' muteriel," superintend the work, and do every- 
thing necessary to promote the said building." 

IV. '"The cong-regation shall immediately take in voluntary sub- 
scripti(ms in order to defray the expenses of the building. The money 
subscribed is to be in two equal payments, viz.: The hrst at the time of 
subscribing, the second immediately after the roof of the new church is 
raised. 

V. "After the church is finished the pews shall be divided into 
convenient seats, except as many free seats for strangers as the manag- 
ers shall think proper, and also Elders' and Deacons' pews, and a pew 
for the minister's family. The said seats shall, after due notice given 
at an appointed time and place, be disposed of at public auction to the 
highest bidder, and the several subscribers shall have credit for all 
moneys by them subscribed, provided, they purchase to the amount of 
the moneys so subscribed. 

\T. " In seats or pews. If any pers(m shall become heir to, or 
^hall purchase from another any of the said seats, and shall not apply 
within one year and one day after such purchase or the obtaining of such 
right or legacy, to have such seat transcribed, they shall be deemed the 
property of the congregation, and the church masters have a right to 
sell them. The price for transcribing shall be four shillings. New York 
currency, per seat." 

Many of these records are curious reading at this day. Among 
others we find a bill for an item of repairs as paid in so many shillings 
"and a gallon of rum." 

The Work and material in this structure were of such a substantial 
kind, that the roof lasted over seventy years. The house was built 
without chimneys, and all the heat the people had was from the little 
portable foot stoves they carried, which were filled at the corner by Mr. 
\'reelandt, ( who kept a supply of coals) and yet they attended church 
in midwinter, sitting in these straight backed pews without a murmur. 

On January S, 1795, a public auction was held at which the pews 
were sold to the highest bidder. The highest price paid was thirty- 
iive pounds, and the lowest, four pounds and twelve shillings. The total 
sum realized at this sale was ;^1292, Is. The ground upon which this 
church was built was bought from Cornelius Vreelandt, for ^AO, " being 
one-half acre, whereon the new church is now erected," and adjoining 
that upon which the old church stood. Stipulations with reference to 
the use of the graveyard were as follows:" 

" The following rates shall be paid by the strangers for the privi- 
lege of burying grounds of this church: for an adult, two dollars per 
grave: all under twelve years, one dollar per grave. "The following 
persons shall be considered as strangers: all those who live in the 
congregation but pay nothing toward the support of the Gospel." 

"All those who live out of the congregation, except such as have 
paid toward building the church, purchasing the ])arsonage lot, and 



HISTOKY OF BEKCJEN COUNTY o3/ 

buildini^- nf the Iiousl- and I)uyin^ of tin- l)uryin<i-!rrnun(l iind their 
children while reniaininfj- under their jurisdiction •" 

Mr. Cornelison's pastorate covered a peric id of thirteen years, closinjj- 
November ISOh, and during- this time thirty persons were added on con- 
fession and eleven by certificate. Rev. Henry Polhemus became the 
next pastor on February 17, 1809, and remaine<l until February 1813, and 
during- this time twenty-six were added. On the 29th of December 180'*, 
the church was incorporated, and on the same dav Mr. Polhemus 
deeded to the church a desirable tract of land he had secured for a par- 
sonag-e, at a purchase price of eig-hteen hundred and thirty-two d(dlars, 
and upon this they built a commodious parsonage. Ke\-. Cornelius T. 
Demarest succeeded Mr. Polhemus as pastor of this church April 2(). 
1813, pleasant relations existing until the troubles of 1822 arose, and 
which resulted in the formation of the True Dutch Reformed Church, 
the pastorate of Mr. Demarest over this people terminating in 1824. 

The first feeling- ag-ainst Mr. Demarest arose through his sympathy 
with Dr. Froeligh, who had received suspended members from other 
churches, and aroused the enmity of those who may have misunderstood 
his motive. Mr. Demarest was afterwards the victim of charges and 
criminations, leading later on to the accusation that, as Clerk of Classis, 
he had returned copies of minutes which were materially false and incor- 
rect ; of deliberate falsehood and prevarication ; of abusive and false 
slanders in public and private, and also of public schism. Mr. Demar- 
est disregarded the citation to answer these accusations. The trial pro- 
ceeded and judgment entered by default declaring- him guilty, and 
suspending him from the office of the ministery. Sixty-two members of 
the church and ccmgregation united in a complaint against the elders 
and deacons, because of their adherence to the suspended pastor. Thev 
were tried, their seats declared vacant and they deposed. 

From February 1825 to July 182S Mr. Abeel served the church and 
was followed by Rev. Philip Duryea, who was installed in December 
1828 and continued with them until 1848. The next pastor was Rev. 
James McFarlane, installed April 1849, who remained with them six 
years. The next pastor was Rev. Andrus Brown Taylor who was with 
them thirty-eight years. After him came a number of pastors, the Rev. 
Marcus J. Roop, the present incumbent coming to the place in 189(). 
Mr. Roop is also Sabbath school superintendent. The elders are Peter 
Acker, John Bush and Mr. Geo. C. Gausman. The deacons are W. P. 
DeGraw, Thomas Moore and Martin Jacobus. Mr. Acker has been elder 
of the church for eighteen years. He was born in Dobbs Ferry, New 
York, and was ccmnected for many years with the New York 
and New Haven Railroad. He married Anna Belle Martling, 
daughter of Stephen Martling in 1867 and has had a residence in 
Ridgetield for over thirty years. He also has a residence in Washing- 
ton, D. C. and spends his winters there. 

The Building and Loan Association was organized in Ridgelield in 
1889 and has capitalized stock of two hundred thousand dollars. The 



538 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

officers are W. B. Pug-h. President; M. S. Avers, M. D., Vice-president; 
(ieorg-e S. Wood, Secretary; P. A. Meserole, Treasurer; Samuel (i. H. 
Wright, Counsel. 

The Fire Department of Ridgefield was organized early in 1895 and 
has an efficient force of twenty-two members, with all the appliance 
necessary for extinguishing fires. The officers are : Edward Servaizc, 
Foreman; John S. Van Sciver, Assistant Foreman; (lustavus Hausman, 
Secretary; Frank Hill, Treasurer. 

samup:l edsai.l de groot. 

The ancestors of Samuel Edsall DeGroot, were among the early 
settlers of " English neighborhood" in Bergen county. The DeGroots 
were French Huguenots, and like many others of their race, went first 
to Holland, and subsequently came to America. John DeGroot the 
great-grandfather of the subject of this sketch was the first of the name 
to locate in Bergen county. He married a Miss Demarest, of Bergen 
county, whose family were French Huguenots, and had left their native 
land because of religious persecution. Of the three sons from this 
union, his son John DeGroot, married Johannah Day. and settled on a 
tract of land which has ever since been the DeGroot homestead. He 
was a farmer, a man of affairs, a Justice of the Peace for a term of 
years, and in various ways was thoroughly identified with the history of 
his county. John Day the maternal grandfather was also a prominent 
public man. He was a farmer and surveyor, was a member of the Old 
Dutch Church, and politically was an influential Whig. Samuel E. De 
Groot's father was twice married. His first wife was Sarah Edsall, 
whose children were John, Naomi, Samuel E., and Leonard. His second 
wife was Maria Scott, whose two children were Ciustavus, Abeel and 
Sarah. 

Mr. S. E. DeGroot was born June 9th 1819. His early life was 
spent on the farm, where he attended the district school, afterward 
spending four years in the Academy at Caldwell, N. J. Following this 
he took a course in the Columbia College Grammar school, upon the 
completion of which he entered the University of New York. Law was 
his chosen profession, but after studying for two years, failing health 
compelled him to abandon his plans and take up farming. In addition 
to agricultural pursuits which proved not t>nly profitable but pleasant, 
time was also found for public affairs. 

In 1849, Mr. DeGroot was elected town clerk, serving four terms in 
succession. In the mean time, in 1853, he was elected Assessor, in 
which office he served four successive terms. In 1861 he was elected 
choosen Freeholder and at the first meeting of the Board after being 
elected a member of that body, he was made director and each term 
thereafter for three terms. Mr. DeGroot was elected a member of the 
Township committee a number of terms, and twice elected a Justice of 
Peace. The Court, recognizing his ability and superior judgment, many 
times ai)pointed him appraiser to estimate and award damages for land 



^5»*r=^.; 




SAMUKL K. UK (iKOOT. 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 541 

taken f(ir railroad purprtscs. Private individuals souirht his aid and ex- 
pressed their confidence in his inteifrity by placing- their interests in his 
hands, as executor and administrator of estates, in at least eleven 
different instances and to an amount aggregating- over $248,000 divided 
among different heirs. 

To Mr. DeGroot was confided the task of keeping account of all 
monies raised for bounties paid to the soldiers in the county during the 
iirst three years of the Civil War, and afterwards when the county ac- 
counts were investigated he had the gratification of being congratu- 
lated by Judge Dixon, who said that Mr. Ivcwis, the expert who 
examined the books found them absolutely correct during the time he 
kept them. 

At the time he retired from the Board of Freeholders, the Bergen 
County Democrat said of him: — "Mr DeGroot as a director of the 
Board displayed marked executive and financial abilitj^, and retires from 
the Board with full esteem and confidence of every member thereof and 
of the community at large." 

He has always been a liberal contributor to all wortliv local enter- 
])rises, and is a man of the highest christian character, whose religious 
convictions have made him a member of the Seceder church for more 
than forty years. 

.M.KXANnEK SH.M.KK. 

"The Shaler family were the tirst settlers of Middlesex county. 
Conn., from Stratford-on-Avon, England. Thomas, the progenitor of 
the family in America, came across in 16()2. The line descends through 
Thomas second, Samuel, Asa, James and Ira, the father of Alexander, 
our subject. The last of this line in England lies buried in "Shakes- 
peare's Graveyard." They were an honored and refined ])eople, though 
not distinguished. 

Alexander, son of Ira and Jerusha (Arnold) Shaler, was born at 
Haddam, Connecticut, March l'>th, iS27. His father, known as Captain 
Shaler, was a mariner during a part of his life, and commanded a vessel 
sailing between New Yf)rk and the West Indies. The family removed 
to New York when Alexander was but seven years of age. whereafter 
attending the public schools he became a pupil in two diiferent private 
schools, finishing his education at Brainerd Academy, Haddam. After 
leaving school, at the age of seventeen, he became employed by his father, 
and three years thereafter became business manager of the concern, which 
consisted in general contracting and in buying and selling North River 
bluestone and builders' materials. Fond of military affairs, he enlisted 
as private in Fifth Company, Washington Greys, in 1845, Eighth Regi- 
ment, New York State Militia, and, in 1848, was transferred to Second 
Company, Seventh Regiment, National Ciuard, New Ynrk. He was im- 
mediately made sergeant, then first lieutenant, and in IS.Sd he was made 
captain. He remained captain in the Seventh, New York, nearly 
eleven vears, when, becoming a resident of New Jersey, he be- 
came identilied with the militia of that state, an<l was for five vears 



542 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

colonol of the First Rcg'imeiit, Hudson Brigade. In 18()() he resig^ned 
hiscommand in New Jersey, and was commissioned major of the Seventh, 
New York. 

When Fort Sumter was fired on in 18()1 he went with his regiment 
to the front and after remaining away about six weeks they returned 
when he was commissioned by the President, lieutentant colonel First 
United States Chasseurs, afterward the Sixty-fifth N. Y. V. After the 
Peninsula campaign he was promoted the colonelcy. His regiment 
formed part of the Sixth Corps and took part in all the battles of the 
Army of the Potomac. After the assault on Mayre's Heights, Fred- 
ericksburg, Va., May 1863, he was appointed brigadier general of volun- 
teers, and assigned to the command of the first brigade, third division, 
sixth corps. He conducted the memorable march of that corps, thirty- 
four miles in nineteen hours, to reach the battlefield of Gettysburg. 
May (>, 18()4, during the Wilderness fight he was taken prisoner and after 
six weeks he was exchanged. After his exchange he was assigned by 
tieneral J. J. Reynolds to third brigade, second division, nineteenth 
army corps ; and by General Solomon Meredith, commanding the depart- 
ment of Kentucky, was ordered to the Post at Columbus, Ky., where head- 
quarters were established November 1, 18«)4. In December 1864, (general 
Shaler was placed in command of the second division, seventh army corps, 
and of the White River District, Department of Arkansas, with headquar- 
ters at Duvall's Bluff. In 1865 while in this command he was appointed 
by the President a brevet major general of volunteers. 

In civil life General Shaler was in 1866, elected a member of the 
New York Board of Supervisors, and in 1867 appointed a Fire Commis- 
sioner and also made president of the Department, and held this office 
for three years. He was a commissioner until 1873. At the request of 
the municipal authorities of Chicago, he reorganized the fire 
department of that city, after the fire of 1871. Prior to that 
time, in 1867, the fire department of New York was reorganized under 
act of the Legislature, requiring the Government to appoint a fifth fire 
commissioner, when General Shaler was made commissioner. He was 
one of the organizers and for four years president and vice president of 
the National Rifle Association, and incorporator of the Army and Navy 
Club, commander of the Loyal Legion of the United States, member of 
the Union League Club, the New York Historical Society, the Ameri- 
can Geographical Society, the American Museum of Natural History, 
the (xeneral Society of Mechanics and Tradesmen, and other organiza- 
tions. 

In 1883 he was appointed president of the New York Hoard of 
Health, and in 1884, was made a member of the board to provide armor- 
ies for the city militia. 

(ieneral Shaler has done much for the prosperity of Ridgefield. He 
was connected with the organization of the present borough govern- 
ment. For six years he was president of the Board of Education, and 




NICHOLAS JACOBl'S 



HISTOKY OF BEKdEN COUNTY 545 

was also president of the Board of Health of the borough and is now 
( 18'>'t ) mayor. 

Cleneral Shaler was married March .^1, l,s47. to Miss Mary McMur- 
raj of New York cit_v. Of their live children his only son, Ira Alexander 
Shaler, was graduated as civil engineer in Cornell University, and 
served in the late Spanish-American war in Porto Rico as major in the 
First Regiment U. S. Volunteer Engineers. 

NICHOLAS JACOBl'S. 

Nicholas Jacobus, for the past forty years a resident of Ridgelield, 
N. J., is a native of the city of New York, born July 30, 182'*. He is 
son of David and Elizabeth Ryerson Jacobus, old residents of the city, 
where his own life was spent until his marriage and removal to Ridge- 
tield, just prior to the Civil war. David Jacobus was a manufacturer of 
sash, blinds, doors, etc., first on Spring street and finally on Wooster 
street. New York, where his business was continued for many years. 
He retired from business about five years before his death which 
occurred November 22, 1S7S. He was born in Morris county, N. J., June 
21, 1S()4, and at fifteen years of age went to the city to carve out a 
fortune for himself, which he did, unaided by any resources save those 
created by himself. 

The mother of Nicholas was born June 5, 1807, and died July 2*t, 
1890. She was a native of Pompton, N. J. The issue of this marriage 
were Nicholas, the subject of this sketch, and Hannah Maria, who was 
born September 5, 1831, and died Novemljer 2, 1840. The homestead is 
at No. 325 West 28th street, New York, where Mr. Jacobus resides during 
the inclement season of the year, the house and belongings being pre- 
served intact out of regard for the home made sacred by parents now 
g-one. 

Mr. Jacobus received his education in the Mechanics Institute of 
New York, a school under the auspices of a society, which gave the 
youth of the city the advantages of a collegiate training before the pres- 
ent course of study in high schools, was adopted. As the only son and 
heir Mr. Jacobus has necessarily been kept busy looking after the busi- 
ness interests of a large estate, tarst before his father's death and subse- 
quently until his own retirement from active life, when he was succeeded 
in the management by Martin R. Jacobus, his son. He was Township 
Committeenvin of Ridgelield for 1872-73, 1875-76, 1881-82-83. 

On March 29, 1861, Mr. Jacobus married Miss Sarah Catherine 
Carpenter, of Orange county. New York, and during that year took u]) 
his residence in Ridgelield, his summer residence at the present time. 
She was the daughter of John and Agnes [Fulton] Carpenter and was 
born in 1S34. 

The property purchased in Ridgefield was originally owned by 
Samuel Edsall (an account of whose life is given elsewhere). Mr. 
Jacobus bought the property from (Gamaliel Rose who had purchased 
the estate from James P. Demarest, by whom it was ccmveved to Mr. 



546 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

Rose May 3, 1837. Mr. Demarest had lived here about thirty rears, 
and the old stone house, a landmark of those earlv years is still 
standing'. 

There were seven children born to Mr. and Mrs. Jacobus. 

David S., the eldest son, is Professor of Experimental Mechanics 
and Engineering Physics in the well known Stevens Institute of 
Technology in Hoboken. As a student, he won a free scholarship for 
the course at the institution, given to the graduate of the preparatory 
school standing highest in a competitive examination. He was ap- 
pointed an instructor when he was graduated from his Alma Mater in 
1S84, and has remained there since that time. On April 5th 1899, he 
married Miss Laura Dinkel of Jersey City. 

In addition to his work as an instructor Professor Jacobus has 
undertaken a large amount of practical engineering work, and served as 
an expert in investigating the feasibility and actual performance of new- 
machines and processes. He has been given every encouragement in 
such work as it is appreciated by those in charge, that an engineering 
school should have among its faculty, men conversant with the practi- 
cal side of the profession, and his training has been with this end in 
view. He has made numerous tests of Mechanical devices to demtmstrate 
certain physical laws, and has made these the basis of a number of 
papers presented to scientific societies, the majority being published in 
the Transactions of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, of 
which society he has long been a member. He is also a member of the 
American Institute of Mining Engineers; the Society of Naval Archi- 
tects and Marine Engineers; The American Mathematical Society, and 
the Society for the Promotion of Engineering Education, and is Fellow 
of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. He has 
contributed to the transactions of all these societies and also to the 
transactions of the the Civil Engineers of Great Britian. He is a 
member of the Engineers' Club, the Arts Club and the Holland 
Society of New York and of the .Technical Club Chicago. The 
other children of Mr. Jacobus are Mrs. Agnes Pratt, wife of Elisha 
Pratt; Daniel C. Jacobus of the Fifth Avenue Bank, New York; Nicholas 
Jacobus who died in early life; Martin R. Jacobus, Manager of the 
Jacobus estate and deacon in the Dutch Reformed Church, Ridgofield : 
Elizabeth, wife of Rev. Mr. Roop, pastor of the same church, and 
Robert Fulton Jacobus, the youngest member of the family. 

JACOB V. KANTA. 

Jacob V. Banta, coal merchant of Ridgetield, is a descendant of 
Yan Banta, who early settled in English Neighborhood, now Ridgetield, 
from which place he removed to Pascack about 175(1, Captain Banta 
a descendant of Yan Banta lived in a stone house in Ridgetield, which 
had been built prior tt> the Revolution. This house became the property 
of Stephen Martling, <me of the projectors of the Northern Railroad 
who moved here from New York in 1S4'», and remained until 1S()5. 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 547 

This was the homestead of the Banta family for many years. Here 
Cornelius, the father of John V. Banta, died in 1819. John V. Banta, 
the father of Jacob V., died in 1876, seventy-one years of age. He was 
the founder of the house, lirst, Banta & Son, then Banta & Brother, 
now Banta & Son again, coal merchants and feed dealers, well known 
throughout this part of Bergen county. Jacob V. Banta was born in 
the Vreeland homestead in 1829. In 1856 he married Clarrissa Ann 
Demarest, daughter of Cornelius Demarest of Saddle River township, 
and by this union had two children, Cornelius and Naomi. The son is 
a member of the firm, Banta & Son. Mr. Banta cares little for political 
preferments though he has served in the Council since the organization 
of the borough. 

FAIKVIEW. 

This village is at the sonthern end of the township, spreading it- 
self partly into Hudson county. It is a small, thriving village, where 
the descendants of the Bantas, Herrings and Garrabrants could once be 
found in numbers, but these are fast giving away to new comers. Among 
the mansions of the place stands that formerly owned by Thomas H. 
Herring, an old New York merchant and one of the early presidents 
of the Northern Railroad, who was at one time president of the New- 
Jersey State Senate. He died July 1st, 1874. 

The Garrabrants here and in Hudson county are from a family at 
one time numerous in Bergen countv. The name is taken from the 
Christian name of the founder, Gerbrand Claesen, his sons and daugh- 
ters taking the name of Gerbrandsen, of which Garrabrant is a corrup- 
tion. 

Henry Day, father of Dr. W. H. Day, for many years a well-known 
physician in this town, was a prominent man, known as the hospitable 
landlord on the old stage route from Albany to New York. He was born 
at Leonia in 1775, where his father owned a hotel during Revolutionary- 
times. He married Catherine Banta, who died in 1840, and by whom he 
had one son, W. H. Day. Henry Dav bought the property now owned 
by George Hornecker, and carried on business as an innkeeper until his 
death in i852. Gus De Groot and John Scott carried on blacksmithing 
wagon making in one end of the old Day homestead. Dr. W. H. Day 
was born in this house July 6th, 1810. He practiced medicine many 
years before the law was passed requiring a license. A diploma 
was granted to him dated May 28th, 1852. He c(mtinued his practice 
at Fairview until 1867, when he moved to Fort Lee, where he remained 
until his death, which occurred June 23d, 1876. Dr. Day was an able 
physician, was one of the founders of the District Medical Society, and 
was held in high esteem by every one who knew him. December 31st, 
1839, he married Eliza, daughter of Peter Wake and Elizabeth Hatfield, 
of Fort Lee. Their only child, Anna Blanchard Day, is the wife of 
Benjamin R. Burdett, at whose residence the mother now lives, and she 
is now in her eisfhtv-ninth year. 



548 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

John and Peter (larrabrandt were both contractors, and erected 
several of the building's in Fairview. Conrad Sedore, a prominent 
builder in New York, learned his trade in New York city and assisted 
in the building- of the Day homestead in 1854. He also helped to build 
the residence now owned by Dr. M. S. Avers. About this time Edward 
Earl, one of the early and prominent deacons of the Church at English 
Neighborhood, died (1854) ag-ed seventy-six years. He was the father 
of Mrs. Marv Sedore, the mother of Conrad Sedore, and she is still 
living in the place eighty-nine years of age; she was married to Alex- 
ander Sedore in 1827, the old Monahan place now owned by the Mabie 
heirs, having been their homestead. During these days the old Deezer 
hotel stood on the southeast corner of the Hackensack Plank Road and 
the old Bulls Ferry Road. This inn was afterward kept by Abraham 
Carlisle, then bv John Lovett, and later by James and George Weaver. 
A Mr. Bankroft had a grocery store sixty years ago, afterward owned 
by Henry Tracy who died of cholera in Fairview in 1852. The ravages 
of this fearful disease sorely afflicted almost every home in Fairview dur- 
ing those dreaded days; it not unfrequently happening- that one, two 
and three members of a family would be taken away in a sing-le night. 
David McDonald, the father of Jeremiah, the first victim of cholera 
kept a grocery in one part of the (dd Deezer hotel, but after the death 
of Henry Tracy he ])urchased the property and continued business at 
that stand. 

There are several stores here at this time, also a post-oftice. a school 
and a church. 

THE BOKOfCiH OE E.MKVIEW. 

The first vote for this borough was cast on the 14th of December, 
18^14. and the first election for officers was held in February, 1S'J5, fol- 
lowed in March by the selection of permanent officials. Dr. M. S. Ayers 
was elected the first Mayor of the borough, and has been re-elected, 
holding that office continuously since that time. The first Council was 
as follows: Benjamin R. Burdett, John N. Nicholson, Cfmrad Sedore, 
William D(maldson, William H. Wendall, Harry D. Fink; F. B. Wallace. 
Clerk. The present officers are as follows: Dr. M. S. Avers, Mayor; 
F. B. Wallace, Clerk; Council, Conrad Sedore, Girard Farenholtz, An- 
drew Grim, W. H. Wendall. Taylor Hurley, F. H. Egbert. The vote 
cast in November, 1895, was one hundred and thirty-five. The popula- 
tion of the village is about seven hundred. 

SCHOOLS. 

There are two School Districts in the borough, Nos. 1 and 2. No. 
1 was originally the old Bulls Ferry School, the house of which was 
moved to the top of the hill, and is now used for the primary grade. 
Miss Laura Clarke, teacher. No. 2 has two departments. Miss Ethel 
Powel Harris, principal ; Miss Nellie Boos, assistant. The School 
Board consists of eight members, of which F. Y. Pond is president. 



msTOK'v ()!■■ bhk<;kn county 54'» 

KOYAI. AKCANUM NO. 498. 

Royal Arcanum. Nd. 4'»8, was org-anized in 18')fl. The charter 
members were Doctor and Mrs. M. S. Avers, Croorf^-e Bruce, Jr., J. 
Nicholson. Frank .Murjjhy, J«>hii S. Tracy, K. M. Pawsen, Dr. M. S. 
.\vers was the first Regent. The names of other Regents who have 
tilled this office are Charles Merrick, Henry Wilson, George Nash, 
Albert Lussen, F. D. Murphy. The present officers are George A. 
Storms, Regent; A. H. Wendall, Vice-regent; E. M. Pawsen, Secretary; 
F. D. Murphy, Treasurer; John S. Tracy, Collector; J. D. Cowan, 
Orator; N. Samler, Warden. 

The societv has a membership of one hundred and ciglitv, and 
holds its meetings in the Town Hall. 

l''IKE DEPAKTMKNT. 

Protection to property was organized in 1894, The leaders in this 
movement consisted of B. R. Burdett, W. H. Tracy, John S. Tracy, 
Taylor Hurley, Malcolm Long, Harry D. Fink, Frank D. Murphy, 
John Nicholson and Conrad Sedore. W. H. Tracy, foreman; Jacob H. 
B. Dav, assistant foreman; John P. Haas, treasurer. The present 
foreman is Jacob H. B. Day, and F. Y. Pond is treasurer. 

HAP'IMST CHIKCH. 

For some time previous to 1.S4S, the people of English Neighbor- 
hood. ( now Fairview i under a council of ministers and delegates, 
organized an independent Baptist Church at this place, to be called the 
First Baptist Church at English Neighborhood. Among those at Fair- 
view instrumental in securing this organization, was Mary Sedore, who 
is the only one of the nineteen persons of that number, now living. 

Rev. William H. Spencer, pastor of the Blo(>mingdale Church, was 
chosen moderator; Re\-. George F. Hendrickson, pastor of the church at 
Perth Amboy, was chosen clerk of the council; Rev. Richard Thomp- 
s(m, pastor of New Durham Baptist Church, read a portion of Scripture 
from the second chapter of the Acts of the Apostles. The joint letter 
of dismission from the New Durham Baptist Church, containing the 
names of nineteen members, as follows: James D. Demarest. David 
McDonald, Ephraini Tracy, William H. Tracy, David C. Dyer. Andrew 
Engle, Jr., .\braham Jackson, Sarah McDonald, Elizabeth Tracy, 
Francis Ebis, Sarah Freeland, Elizabeth Compton, Mary McDonald, 
Mary Sedore, William Engle, Catharine Townsend, Margaret Demarest, 
Sarah Engle, Elizabeth Jackson, who were dismissed from the sai<l 
church, was then read before the council. The articles of faith and 
church covenant were then read and examined by the council, which were 
approved. It was then voted to ])roci'ed to organize them into an inde- 
pendent Bajjtist Church, and services were first held in i)rivate houses 
until 1S(,4. when the membership increase*! and a church edifice deemeil 
necessary. In the fall of 1864 a church was erected at a cost ot two 
thousand dollars, which was built bv subscription. This church, a small 
wocxlen structure, twent\-foiir bv thirtv-five feet, was located in the 



550 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 



centre of the villao-e. The building- committee was David C. Dyer, 
James D. Demarest, David McDonald, W. H. Tracy, Andrew S. Enf^le. 
The church was dedicated December 13, 18(.4, by Rev. Mr. Dowlely, ol 

New York. . 

The tirst trustees were James D. Demarest, David C. Dyer, David 
McDonald, W. A. Tracv, and Andrew S. Engle. First deacons, James 
D. Demarest and Ephraim Tracy, The first pastor was Rev. George F. 
Hendrickson, who presided over this congregation at intervals since 
1848. Rev. C. A. Harper, was called in 1878, and in 1880 the church 

disbanded. 

The building is now used as a chapel for any denommatKm that 
chooses to worship there. The Methodists at this time under the 
preaching of the Rev. John Mena, of New York, being prominent. 

MELANCTHON S.\YKE AYERS, M. D. 

Dr. Melancthon Savre Avers, Mayor of Fairview, and otherwise 
prominent in social and" political life, is a native of Beemerville, New 
Jersey, born October 23, 1846. His maternal ancestors were of Hol- 
land and French descent, his mother being Rebecca Ogden Decker. His 
father, however, came from Scotch stock, and owned a large farm in 
Sussex county where our subject spent the -earlier years of his life. 
After leaving the public schools, voung Ayers prepared for college at 
Suffield, Connecticut after which he taught school at Beemerville, one 
year. In 1868, he entered the College of Physicians and Surgeons, m 
New York, and desiring to familiarize himself with drugs and medicines, 
he purchased a drug store in the city during the first year of his college 
career. He c<mtinued this business until the completion of his studies, 
when he was h<mored by an appointment as Surgeon on board of one of 
the Black Ball Packet Line of ships, and sailed for Europe where he 
spent the summer. Upon returning to New York Dr. Ayers began the 
practice of medicine in the city but remained there only until 1872. He 
then located in Fairview and is still practicing, having in the mean- 
time made an honorable record in his profession. 

As a rule every honorable and upright man possessing force of 
character sufficient to qualify himself for the duties of life, has sooner 
or later been recognized as a useful factor in matters of public import- 
ance This has been the history of the subject of this sketch. In 
military affairs the Doctor has been honorably remembered m his ap- 
pointment of First Lieutenant and Assistant Surgeon to the Second 
Battalion, National Guard, New Jersey, June 18, 1873, and promoted to 
Major and Surgeon April 15, 1876. He resigned m June 1888. 

Upon the organization of the borough of Fairview Dr. Ayers was 
elected its first Mayor in 1894, re-elected in 1895 and re-elected again in 
1897. His term expires in 1899. The doctor has been president of the 
Rido-efield Twouship Protective Association since 1882, and was ap- 
pointed Special Police Justice by Governor Abbett during his presidency 
of the Protective Society. He is a member and ex-president of the 




^:^^^ 




:^^,JK 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY a.-'.'. 

Berg-en County Medical Society, and has also been from time to time 
himored with other positions of trust. 

In 1897 the Doctor organized the Cliffside Land Company and he- 
coming' its president purchased a large tract of land on the Palisades 
o])p<)site Grant's Monument, laid it out in lots, and formed the nucleus 
of a town which he had named Grautwood. 

Dr. Ayers was married first to Miss Nellie Hill of New York city, 
December 1874. Mrs. Ayers died' August 12, 1876, leaving a son, Nelson 
M., an infant but a few days old. The Doctor married Miss Lillian 
Packard of Providence, R. I., on November 4, 1885. His son Nelso.i M. 
Avers prepared for college in Berlin, Germany, and at Princeton and 
Hackettstown, N. J. He was graduated from Yale University June. 
18'»8, and entered New York Law School in October following. 

COXK.VD SEDOKE. 

Conrad Sedore, a well known contractor and member of the Bor- 
ough Council, has been prominently identified with the interests of 
Fairview for many years. His grandfather Conrad, and Althea Sedore 
moved to Ridgefield township from New York State, locating on the hill 
above Fairview, before the Revolutionary war. Their children were: 
Isaac, William, Alexander, Eliza, Mary, Jane, Catharine, Susan and 
Elvira. Alexander, the father of our subject married Mary Earl, 
daughter of Edward Earl, in 1827, locating on the property now known 
as the Mabie place in English Neighborhood, and at this time owned by 
John Monahan. Edward Earl was one of the deacons of the church at 
English Neighborhood for many years. He died in 1854, 79 years of age. 

Conrad Sedore was the third son of a family of seven children, and 
was born in 1834. At the age of sixteen he went to New York and 
learned the trade of carpenter. He remained in the city many years 
following- his calling and was for a period of fifteen years in charge of 
the three hundred and fifty buildings, belonging to the old Trinity cor- 
poration. He remained in the city twenty-five years, actively engaged 
in business, much of that time, in charge of large interests, and at the 
head of many employees. Soon after the Rebellion he returned to Fair- 
view, building his own house in 1891, where he now resides. 

In 185() he was married to Sarah Westerfield, daughter of Henry and 
Eliza Westerfield, of Hudson county. 

Mr. Sedore, although public spirited, takes the most interest in his 
church connections, and in church work. He has been a member of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church since twenty-two years of age, and was a 
class leader for eleven years in the Perr}^ Street M. E. Church, New 
York. He is also a leading member of the Union Society in Fairview. 

Be:nJ.\MIN K. Bl'KDETT. 

Benjamin R. Burdett of Fairview traces his lineage to Ste])lien 
Hurdett, who was a resident and landowner in this locality, many vears 
prior to the Revolutionary war. 



554 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

About twenty years previous to that period, Stephen purchased 
some four hundred acres of hind, upon which are located the sites of 
the two forts, which is now Fort Lee. At an earlier date, howeycr, he 
liad, conjointly with William Bayard received from the king a grant of 
land covering the ground upon which Weehawken and Hoboken are 
built. In the course of time the spelling of the famil}' name was 
changed to Burdett, by dropping the "o" and "e" from the first syllable. 

Mr. Burdett's grandparents were, Benjamin and Rachel Burdett. 
His father Henry Burdett married Rachel Scott, and by this marriage 
there have been the following children: Mary Alvira, wife of Rev. 
Martin Herr; Peter, now of Elizabeth, N. J.; Sarah A. (deceased ); Rachel 
(now dead) was the wife of Dr. Burdett of Hackensack; John H., of 
Hunterdon county, N. J.; Benjamin R., Wilbur F., deceased; Richard 
Watson in Hunterdon county, and Newtcm James, who died at the age 
of eighteen months. 

Benjamin R., our subject, was born at Fort Lee, March 18th, 184(1. 
He was educated in the public schools of Fort Lee, supplemented by a 
two years course at Pennington Seminary. Mr. Burdett's father was a 
Methodist and entertained the preachers at his home. During his life- 
time he was a carpenter and boatbuilder, as was his father. He died in 
1874 aged seventy-two years. During the war of the Rebellion. Mr. 
Burdett was in the grocery business in Spring street. New York city, 
and later in Fort Lee, when his health failed and he was obliged to give 
up business. His wife, whom he married in 1878, was Miss Anna B. 
Day, only daughter of Dr. W. H. Day of Fort Lee. Dr. Day was one 
of the founders of the District Medical Society of the county of Bergen, 
and died in 1S7(). 

Mr. Burdett's two children are William Day, who was graduated 
from the Hackensack High school, and "later took one year in the Col- 
lege of Physicians and Surgeons of New York when his health failed. 
Eliza Day is at home. 

Peter Burdett brother of Benjamin R., enlisted in Com])any K 22nd 
New Jersey Volunteers, in which he was made sergeant. 

Mr. Burdett is a Republican and has been secretary of the Republi- 
can Executive Committee of Bergen county for six years. He has been 
Justice of the Peace one year, and was one of the first councilmen and 
President of the Council of the borough of Fairview. He is also a 
member of the Sons of Temperance and of the Royal Society of Got)d- 
fellows, in which he has held every office in the gift of the association. 
In addition to these, Mr. Burdett has been District Deputy of the 
district. 

JOHN p. H.V.\S. 

John P. Haas son of Joseph and Crezencia ( Kfeiffer ! Haas, was 
born in New York city, June 22, 1859. His parents came from (iermany 
in 1850, and settled in New York where John was educated in a private 
school. 



HISTOKV OF BEKtlKN COUNTY OOO 

In 1<S72 he learned the trade of barber, finding employment in 
various shops until 1878, when he went into business for himself in this 
city, continuing- them until 1880, he then came to Fairview and began 
business which has proved successful. Mr. Haas been twice married, 
first to Miss Emma Kaufhold who died leaving him two daughters. His 
second marriage was to Miss Anna Beck. They have four daughters 
and two sons. Mr. Haas has been Collector since the formation of the 
borough in 18'»4, having been twice elected to that office, being also 
Treasurer of the borough. He is a member of the Englewood Lodge, 
I. (). (). F., No. T)7, and a charter member of Bergen Lodge, A. O. U. 
\\\, No. 52. He was a charter member and took an active part in the 
organization of Piges Hose Company. 

PALISADES I'AKK. 

The village of Palisades Park was founded by Benjamin W. Hitch- 
cock, who built the depot about 1888, and afterwards sold it to the rail- 
road. There are one or two stores in the place; also a Union Chapel, 
the ground for which was given by Henry and John Brinkerhoff, the 
chapel being dedicated on March 8th, 1898. John Blackstrom, the first 
storekeeper, is still trading here. The new school house was erected in 
18'H. F. B. Armstrong, the principal, is assisted by three teachers. 
The last census gives a list of one hundred and twenty-eight children 
in the district of school age. 

The borough of Palisades Park lies between the boroughs of Le- 
tmia and Ridgefield, is about one mile square and has a taxable valuation 
of about $(.00,000. It was incorporated March 22, 1899. 

The officers are as follows: John S. Edsall, mayor; Michael Reid, 
Louis Schlumberger, Henry Scholz, Robert MacDonald, John P. Davis, 
Daniel Krueger, council; John Brinkerhoff, collector; Alfred I. Parkyn, 
assessor; C. H. Lozier, Sr., W. G. Sanderson, Johannes Johns(m, com- 
missioners of appeals; C^eorge W. Gardiner, borough clerk. 

JOHN G. EDSALL. 

John(i. Edsall of Palisades borough, occupies the old Edsall home- 
stead, which has come to him by inheritance from father to son, from 
Samuel Edsall, the progenitor of the family, who purchased the estate 
in colonial times. This estate originally consisted of about two thou- 
sand acres of land extending north from Bull's Ferry along the Hudson 
River two and a half miles nearly to Fort Ia'c and inland to the Hack- 
ensack River and Overpeck Creek. This grant according to a state- 
ment made in the New York Genealogical and Biographical Record of 
October 1882, was obtained from the Indians early in 1()(>9. This 
Samuel Edsall was of Holland ancestry and emigrated from England to 
America in 1648. In 1774 we find him acting as president of the 
recently organized "Court of Judicature" in the village of Bergen, and 
in l(i7.^ a special court of Oyer and Terminer was held over which 
William Sandford was i.rcsident, and Samuel Edsall was an associate. 




lOHX ('.. i-;dsai.i.. 



HISTOKY OK BEKGEN COUNT\ 557 



( )n an old map of New York he is marked in i(.56 as the owner of a larg-e 
tract <.f laud, a part of which lay on the Strand, now Pearl street. He 
married his first wife Janetje Jane Wessels in the Dutch church in lf)55. 
After her death he married Namoi, widow of Samuel Moore, a merchant. 
Mr. Edsall's third wife was Ruth Woodhull who owned the old Edsall 
plantation, known as Edsall's Point. This property falling into the 
possession of her son Richard Edsall, was sold May 27, 1735 to Michael 
Vrielandt. 

Samuel E., son of John and jrrandson of Samuel tirst mentioned was 
sheriff of Bergen county in 174(1. It was this Samuel who built the 
okl stone house used until 1851 for the Edsall residence. John G. 
Edsall is a great grandson of Samuel and Naomi Christina (Day) 
Edsall, grands(m of John and Gertrude ( Lydecker ) Edsall, and the son 
of Garret L., and Lavinia ( Terhune ) Edsall. Mr. Edsall's mother, a 
daughter of James A. Terhune of Teaneck, is still living on the 
homestead. 

John, son of Samuel, and grandfather of the subject of this 
sketch, died in l,s7(,, eighty-eight years of age. The present residence 
was built by him in ISi.l. Garret L.. his son, died in 1885. He was 
one of the organizers of the Jersey Blues (in 1S(,1 ) and became the 
second lieutenant of that famous company. 

The old residence built by Sheriff Edsall, was torn down in 1SS7. 

John G. Edsall was born in 1851, and has spent his whole life at 
the place of his birth. 

A man of sterling character, he has made a record in business for 
strict integrity and honesty, neither seeking nor desiring political 
recognition, alth<mgh his borough forced him into the candidacy for 
mayor, and came within a vote or two of electing him to that positi.m, 
in the spring of l,S'»<t. He has served, however, on the school board in 
his district, the question being (me of vital issues of the day. 

The farming interests of the old Edsall estate have always been 
imixirtant. while the improvements on the farm and the produce raised 
for market have been made to keep progress with the time. 

In 1S8,^ Mr. Edsall was married to Miss Pauline Pruden and by this 
union there are two children. 

JOHN S. KDSAI.I,. 

John S. Edsall. Mayor of Palisades Park, is a great grandson of 
Samuel Edsall and Naimii Christina Day. His grandparents were John, 
and (kTtrude (Lydecker) Edsall, and his parents Samuel and Isabella 
(Christie) Edsall. 

Mr. Edsall was brought up on the farm which is a part of the old 
Samuel Edsall estate meutitmed elsewhere in the work. In addition to 
his farming .interests, he is engaged in real estate business with his 
brother Samuel S. Edsall. Mr. Edsall is identified officially with the in- 
terests of his part of Bergen county. He was a member of "the Tri-town- 
ship (P.iorhouse) Committee for a period of eleven years, was Treasurer 



558 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

of the Poorhouse Cdmmittec for ten years. He was elected Mayor of 
the V)orough of Palisades Park in the spring of l.S't'>. 

On May 7, 1S()1, Mr. Edsall enlisted in the First Regiment, Bergen 
Brigade, and was from time to time promoted, holding different offices 
in his company until October If), 1888, when he was made captain. 

Mr. Edsall married Lydia, daughter of Garret S. Banta, and is 
father of seven children; Belle, Lena, wife of Abram Christie; Gertrude; 
Sarah B., wife of J. B. Moore; Charles; (iarret, who was killed by a 
train on the Northern New Jersey Railroad in 1S')7; Agnes Naomi and 
Lily May. Samuel S. Edsall his brother, and member of the tirm of 
Edsall Brothers, New York, is unmarried. 



THK BKINKEKHOl'F FA^^L^•. 

The Brinkerhoff family is one of the oldest in this county. The 
homestead was on the site now occupied by the residence of Henrj- Brink- 
erhoff in Palisades Park. The fountain head of this family dates back 
to 1().^8, when Joris Dericksen Brinkerhoff, with his family landed in the 
little city of New Amsterdam. From Joris Dericksen ( Joris son of 
Derick j so far as known, with(^ut exception, have come all who bear 
the name, or lineage, of Brinkerhoff upon the American continent. 
Some spell the name B-r-i-n-c-k and some B-r-i-n-k, and the othographv 
of either is fully authenticated in ancient documents. In a few manu- 
scripts it is written "Blinkerhoff,"and in one instance Van Blynckerhoff. 
The Flushing branch of the family, ( descendents of Abraham, son of 
Joris Dericksen, ) for the most part, use the "c." The Bergen branch 
( descendents of Hendrick, son of Joris Dericksen, ) have almost entirely 
omitted it. It may be safely said that Joris Dericksen Brinkerhoff was 
a very worthy representative of the Holland family to plant in America, 
and very deserving of rememberance by all who bear his family name 
or have descended from him. All of these may feel assured that the 
first representative of that name in America was an honest and upright 
man. The family motto " ( 'oi/.^fai/s fidc:> cl iutcgritas" seems evidently 
fitting to the man. He held in those early days positions of trust requir- 
ing probity and integrity of character, and held them for years, was 
preeminently a religious man. He lived in times of great religious 
excitement. His children ( two sons and a daughter ) were all members 
of the church and his descendants, with very rare exceptions, down to 
the present time, have been loyal adherents of the churches of the 
Reformation. The records of any of the Dutch churches in the neigh- 
borhood of New York will give abundant evidence of this fact. Seven 
of the subscribers to the building fund of the Dutch church at Flushing, 
Long Island, for 17.il, were Brinkerhoff's, and in the list of pew-holders 
for 17.^h, twentj-one of them were Brinkerhoff's. The first two names on 
the roll of the Brooklyn church organized in 1660, are Joris Dericksen 
Brinkerhoff and his wife, Susannah. The first two names in the Hack- 
ensack church, are Hendrick Jorise Brinkerhoff and his wife, Clausie. 



HISTOKY OF BERGEN COUNTY 55<> 

In 17.^7, what is now the Brinkerhoff homestead consisted of four 
hundred acres of land, Ixiuyht hy I'ornelius Brinkerhoff from Mat- 
thew Benson for ^,5(>S(I, and was then a tract of unimproved land, 
covered with woods and underbrush. It was not until 1758 that the first 
house was built here bv John Brinkerhoff. It was two stories high, a 
sort of cross between a flat roof and a "short pitch," a stvle of archi- 
tecture much in voyue at that period. Heavy, rouL;h oak iseams were 
used in its construction, the timbers being all pinned, and no nails used 
where it was possible to pin together with wooden pins. 

John Brinkerhoff, the great grandfather of our subject, was born 
A])ril 14, 1750, and died October 19, 182.i. His son, Henry, born Janu- 
ary 30, 17'i,>, married Mary Christie. He was a captain of the militia. 
Theirchildren were John H., Cornelius, Hannah Maria and William Henry. 
He built the house now standing on the farm in 1838, when his son, 
John H., was l'» years of age. John H. Brinkerhoff was born Septem- 
ber 10, 181'». On March 25, 1840, he married Naomi Edsall, and by this 
union were born nine children, of whom, only two, Henry and John, 
are now living. He was one of the organizers of the " Jersey Blues," 
May 7, 1861. He died in 1SS7. Of his two surviving sons, Henry, the 
elder, owns the homestead. He is distinctively a farmer, and has never 
sought office (ir political preferment. 

John Brinkerhoff has been a member of Company E, Second Regi- 
ment, N. G. N. J., since 1872, first as a private, afterwards being made 
second lieutenant, hcdding that office during the enlistment of his regi- 
ment in the Spanish-American war. On December 10, 1897, the mem- 
bers of the company presented him a handsome sword, engraved with 
suitable inscription, in recognition of his twentv-five years' faithful 
service. He was married on November 29, 1882, to Miss Anna Louisa 
Pruden, and is the father of one child, Ethel Louise. An ehler child, 
William De(jraw Brinkerhoff. was born November 17, 1S83, and died 
June 2, 1892. 

LKNO.VIA. 

This part of old English Neighborhood had no sci)arate existence as 
a village until the railroad was built. Among the oldest families who 
lived here when the church building was erected in 1831, were John 
Burdett, who built the house now owned and occupied bv General Moore 
and his brother Major Stephen H. V. Moore; (xarret Meyers who with 
John Cole gave the ground for the church ; and David Christie who 
bought the farm of (t. Meyers and moved into the house at present owned 
by Cornelius and known as "The Homestead," are among the number. 
But we hear of no trading here until C. D. Shaw, the first agent of the 
depot for the railroad company kept the post-office, also a store, and Mr. 
Shaw has been from that time to this in a business way connected with 
the people of Leonia. 

P. P. Cluss, recorder of the borough, who has been in business six- 
teen years succeeded C. D. Shaw in 1890. J. H. Clarke and A. M. Price, 
are each doing a successful commercial business also. Mr. James 



560 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

Christie, collector of the boroug'h, established a prosperous trade in coal, 
wood, lime, etc., over twenty 3'ears aj^o. He was succeeded by J. H. 
Ferdon, in 1896. 

The stores and business enterprises of the boroug'h tog-ether with 
the beautiful site of the village, which has attracted people from the 
great metropolis, is fast building up the place. 

THE BOROUGH OK LEONIA 

The borough of Leonia was incorporated December 5, 1894. The 
first officers were: Mayor, Cornelius Christie; Councilmen, Lorenzo Gis- 
mond, William P. De Graw, D. G. Beeching, J. Vreeland Moore, Edward 
CJrinslade, C. J. Terhune; Collector, R. J. G. Wood; Assessor, C. D. 
Schor; Borough Clerk, H. F. Ahrens. 

Officers elected March 20, 1899, were: Mayor, Cornelius Christie; 
Councilmen, Edward Stagg, Morell M. FuUarton, Frank I. Barrett, 
Benj. H. Belknap, Robert Duncan, Edward Stagg, Lorenzo Gismond; 
Collector, James Christie; Assessor, Julius H. Clark; Borough Clerk, 
H. F. Ahrens. 

The assessed valuation of the borough in 1899 was $579,930. 

H. P. Hurd is President of the Board of Health. 

LEONIA COUNCIL KOVAL AKCANUM NO. 956. 

Leonia Council Royal Arcanum No. 956 was instituted on July 29th, 
1!S9(). Brother J. Day Otis, Grand Regent of New Jersey was the instal- 
ling officer, assisted by Past Grand Regent Frank T. Griffeth, F. S. 
Petter, R. H. Alberts, S. J. Kallam, W. Lounsbury. The officers for 
the term were as follows: Regent, O. O. Clark; Vice-Regent, B. H. 
Belknap; Past Regent, Abram Whitle}'; Orator, P. S. Saitta; Secretary, 
E. D. McKown; Collector, J. H.Clark; Treasurer, J. Randolph Appleby; 
Chaplain, Edward Stagg; Guide, G. W. Peters; Warden, H. D. Van 
Zaut; Sentry, I. W. Pope. The number of charter members was twenty- 
one, and the number on roll July 1st, 1899, was fifty-eight. 

The present officers of the Council are as follows: — Regent, H. D. 
Van Zaut; Vice-Regent, Robert Duncan; Orator, B. H. Belknap; Past 
Regent, J. H. Clark; Secretary, C, Harry Eaton; Collector, E. T. 
Swayer; Treasurer, E. G. (iismond; Chaplain, H. F. Ahrens; Guide, E. 
B. Williams; Warden, William S. Iserman; Sentry, Charles E. (loebel. 

FIRE DEPAKTMENT. 

The borough maintains four churches, an excellent school of three 
teachers, a lire department, and has one flourishing beneficiary organi- 
zation. 

Protection against loss by fire has been assured by the incorporation 
of a well organized fire department, of Hose Company No. 1, July 9, 
1898, and shortly after of Hook and Ladder Company No. 2, consisting 
of thirty-two members with George W. Mabie, Chief; A. D. Bogart, 
and H. E. Oakley, Foremen of the respective companies. The building 



HISTORY OF BEROEN COUNTY 561 

was erected in 1S")S. The department have hose cart, hook and ladder, 
truck, and one thousand feet of hose. 

THIC TKTIv KKI''()KMKn DUTCH CIIUKCII A'l' I.ICONIA. 

Probably the actual history of this church, as a separate body, 
dates from I'^ebruarv 20, 1824, at which time the consistory issued their 
sii;-ned protest ag-ainst the Classis of Berj^en. This protest was signed 
by 49 persons, male and female. The Rev. C. T. Demarest was Presi- 
dent of the consistory at this time and preached for the new cong^rega- 
tion. On March 11, 1S24, the consistory met at the parsonage and John 
W. Banta and John Kdsall were made a committee to wait ui)on the 
Kev. James (t. Brinkerhoff to ])rocure his services for the two succeed- 
ing- Sabbaths, and afterwards issued a regular call to him, "offering- 
him $250.00 per annum in half yearly payments, tog-ether with the use 
of the parsonag-e so long- as it remains in the possession of this consis- 
tory, for the whole of his services, except six free Sabbaths." During 
the succeeding- months there appears to have been some legal disturb- 
ances in the church, but they were happily settled. 

On June .■^, 1S24, at a meeting of the consistory at the house of 
Kichard Scott, in Hackensack, at which the Rev. Sidomon Froeligh 
presided, by recjuest, the Rev. C. T. Demarest stated to the meeting 
that he had received a call from the True Reformed Dutch Church in 
New York city, and had accepted the same, and desired to be dismissed 
from his then charg-e. The request was g-ranted. " During the minis- 
trations of Mr. Demarest the church community was especially looked 
after l)y him in church dicipline, and the teaching of the church was 
ever on his lips." Still it was not all harmony, and finally the (General 
Synod was appealed to, to assist in the settlement of internal disorders. 
He was succeeded by the Rev. I'eter D. Froeligh of Ackquackanonk. 
He was called June 21st, 1825, and died February 1'), 1S2S. Irregular 
preaching followed, the Rev. C. T. Demarest occasionally officiating 
until November 4. is,^'), when he was duly installed. 

" The society first held service in a barn," then attached to the old 
parsonage, afterwards the property of Mrs. James Cronkwright, and 
later still in the parlor of the parsonage until the erection of their pres- 
ent church. It is recorded that "in the year of our Lord 18.^1, the new 
meeting house of the True Reformed Protestant Dutch Church of the 
English Neighborhood was built." The record states that "the church 
was built on the west side of the English Neighborhood road, a little 
distance lielow where the road from Hackensack to Fort Lee crosses it, 
on ground given by (iarret Me3'er and John Cole; and to this David 
Christie, who bought G. Meyer's farm, and John Cole, afterward made 
handsome additions on each side." Then comes the information that 
the church was dedicated. Rev. C. T. Demarest preached a. m., from 
Zach, 13:7, the last clause, and C. Z. I'auliscm. p. m., from Eph. 2:21. 
The church building was paid for by subscription, and cost about 81500, 
and a final settlement w;is made April 3. IS.^2." Some of the jiews in 
the completed edifice were sold at public auction Deceml.)er (i, 1831 ; 



562 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

another sale was held July 23, 1832, and still another afterward, and the 
final settlement on sales was made December 10, 1832. 

In 1850 the finances of the church received a very welcome addition. 
On March 27, 1850, the Consistor}' Elders and Deacons met at the house 
of James P. Brinkerhoff to receive the one thousand dollars from the 
executors of. the late John Lydecker which he willed to the church. 

Mr. Demarest's pastorate closed in 1852 and he was succeeded bv 
Rev. Cornelius J. Blauvelt, who was installed on the fourth Sabbath of 
1853. About this time Mr. Abraham Huyler left a beqeust of some four 
hundred dollars to the church, but some trouble was experienced because 
the church was not incorporated. Articles of incorporation were again 
tiled October 12, 1854 and the money was paid over to the church not- 
withstanding- it had been incorporated during the ministry of the Rev. 
P(dhemus of the old church in 1809. 

Dominie Blauvelt commenced his administration with great energy 
and success, but failing health soon told on his efforts. In September 
1859 the lower part of his body was paralyzed and a little later the Rev. 
John Y. DeBaun assumed charge of both congregations. He was 
installed May 6, I860. He was eloquent and earnest and a successful 
pastor. On April 18, 1875 he preached his farewell sermon, the Rev. 
A. Van Houten succeeded by installation May 14, 1876. To the regret 
and loss to the church Mr. Van Houten handed in his call to the Consis- 
tory in September 1884, and he was succeeded by the Rev. Harvey Iser- 
man May 24, 1885. He was a student under the Rev. Mr. DeBaun, and 
ranked high as a Latin, Greek and Hebrew scholar. He was succeeded 
by the Rev. James Wyckoff, the last pastor of the church, who took 
charge May 1, 1896, remaining until December 1898 when the church 
voted itself out. There is no pastor at the present time. Samuel 
DeGroot and James Christie are the elders and Cornelius Shaw is the 
deacon. 

THE PKE.SBVTEKIAN CHUKCH. 

The Presbyterian Church was organized February 1st, 1899, with 
tifty-eight members from the Christian Reformed Church of Leonia, 
when ten others were subsequently added to the number. The elders 
are John Eiserman. John W. Christie. David Talmadge. The Society 
now worship in Lyceum Hall, but are intending to build very soon. Rev. 
James Wyckoff, the pastor, is a native of Lodi, Seneca county, N. Y., 
and was born in 1839. He took his degree of A. B. from Rutgers Col- 
lege in 1861, graduating from the Seminary at New Brunswick in lS(i4. 
He took charge of the Christian Reformed Church May 1, 189(.. On 
December 18, 1898, the church voted itself out of the Reformed Churcli 
and formed the above organization. 

THE EPISCOP.VL CHUKCH. 

The Episcopalians built their house of worship in Leonia in IS'iS. 
They have a membership of ft)rty persons, under the pastoral care of 
the Rev. C. Malcolm Douglas, and are in a prosperous condition. Rev. 
Walter H. Sherwood was their first rector. K. Ahrens is senior warden. 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTV 5(>5 

THE METHODIST CHURCH. 

The Methodists also have a place of worship in the villaj^e, which 
they built about three years ago. Their present pastor is the Rev. John 
Burton. 

COKNELIUS CHRISTIE. 

Cornelius Christie, a highly esteemed citizen of Leonia, is of 
vScotch and Flemish ancestry. The earliest paternal emigrant in the 
Christie family was James, who was born in Scotland, and died at 
Schraalenburgh, April lf>, 17()S, at the advanced age of ninety-si.x or 
ninety-eight years, and was the great-great-grandfather of Cornelius. 
William, the son of James was born August 9, 1720, married Catalynthe 
Demarest. vSeptember 22, 174.^, and died September 13. 18(1^). Of their 
twelve children James, the eldest, was born August 20. 1744. He mar- 
ried Maria Banta in 1772, and died July ,^, 1.S17. Daxid the son t)f 
James and Maria Christie, was born December 1, 17.S"), married Anna 
Brinkerhoff March 12, 1814, and died April 8, 184S. David and Anna 
were the parents of Cornelius. Mr. Christie's mother was a descendant 
of J(iris Derickson BrinkerholT, of Flemish extraction, who with his 
wife Susannah Dubbels, emigrated to this country from the United 
Provinces, in ll>.^S, and settled in Brooklyn, N. Y., where he died 
January 1(), 1()()1. Hendrick, son of Joris married Clausie Boomgaert 
and in 1685, bought a tract of land on the east bank of the Hackensack, 
now known as Ridgetield Park, and in the township of Ridgetield. Soon 
after removing his family to his new home Mr. Brinkerhoff died, leav- 
ing three sons. Two of tlie sons. Jacobus and Derrick, took the land 
at old Hackensack, while Cornelius removed to Bergen. 

The line descends through Jacobus, whose wife was Agnetie. 
Their son Jacob had seven children, one being Albert who was born 
March 21, 17(>.>, married Kezia Voorhis in 17()(>, and died Deceml)er S, 
1844. Albert and Kezia Brinkerhoff bad three chihlren, Anna, 
the eldest, born May 12, 17'*7, becoming the wife of Da\i(l Christie. 

The ancestors of Mr. Christie were petiple of decided character, and 
deep convictions concerning the aims and duties of life. In their relig- 
ious life they were Calvinistic in doctrine, adhering strictly to the 
Reformed Dutch Church. They were also intensely patriotic, rendering 
valuable service to the cause of their adopted country. James Christie. 
grandfather of Cornelius bore a Captain's commission in the Re\dlu- 
tionary war and did good service, but the royalist as zealous in their 
cause, burned the homestead of William the father of James, while 
John, a brother of James, and Lucas, a Ijrother of Alliert Brinkerhoff, 
were imprisoned in the old Sugar House. 

John, a f)rother of Da\-id Christie, was minister of the Reforme<l 
Dutch Church and settled at Warwick, Orange County, N. J., where he 
died after a long jKistorate. Peter Christie, another brother, was for a 
long period, a surgeon in the United States Navy and died at Erie, 
Pennsylvania. 



566 HISTORY OF BEKGKN COUNTY 



Altboutj-h they were all engag-ed in agricultural pursuits, it was 
usually in connection with some other trade or profession. Soon after 
his marriage to Anna Brinkerhoff, David removed to New York city, 
and engaged in the business of stone cutting in which he prospered 
until in 1835 he purchased the farm of Garrett Meyer at English 
Neighborhood, (now Leonia) and removed there with his family to 
spend his remaining days. It was here that Cornelius was born, 
December 6, 1835. His preparatory studies were under the supervison 
of the Rev. John Mabon in his well known classical school at Hacken- 
sack. after which he entered Yale College taking the full course, and 
was graduated in 1855. After spending one year at the Harvard Law 
School, he finished his studies with Chancellor Abram O. Zabriskie in 
1860 and almost immediately opened an office in Jersey City. In 1867 
he was elected Member of Assembly of the State on the Democratic 
ticket and the following year was re-elected on the same ticket. In 
1871, he started the " New Jersey Citizen," a weekly paper at Hacken- 
sack, of which he was editor and proprietor. The publication was 
Democratic, devoted to local interests and the improvement of journalism 
in the county. This was continued six years, the last three as a semi- 
weekly. In 1879 he resumed the practice of law at Jersey city. Mr. 
Christie resides at Leonia, and is now serving his second term as Mayor 
of the Borough. 

JAMES VKKEI.AND MOOKE. 

The first official record of Samuel Moore ( the emigrant ancestor of 
the Moore family, of English Neighborhood, Bergen county, N. J.) is 
dated July 20, 1669, on which date a "Patent was granted by Governor 
Philip Carteret to Mark Noble and Samuel Moore, of Barbadoes, Mer- 
chants, for sundry Parcels of Land lying in and about the Town of 
Bergen."* 

These tracts of land they had purchased July 15, lf)(i9, of Samuel 
Edsall, who was then a prominent member of Governor Carteret's 
Council, the first being a large lot or jjlot in the north part of the town. 

In the second described ti"act of land, one of the corner boundaries 
is designated as a "stake," standing in the road that leads from the 
town to the English Neighborhood, showing that it had been so named 
prior to that date. 

The third tract comprehended five lots of upland and five lots of 
meadow, and extended from what is now West Side Avenue to the Hack- 
ensack River. All these tracts are now within the corporate limits of 
Jersey City. 

Mark Noble seems to have remained in the Island of l>arl)a(loes. and 
is included in the census of the town of St. Michaells in 168(l.t 

Samuel and Naomy Moore, his wife, emigrated to Boston, Mass., 
from the English island of Barbadoes in the West Indies, about the 
year 1671-2, and removed to New York in 1674 or 5; following them in 
direct line are Samuel, ( the voungest son of said Samuel Moore, the 

' Winfleld-s Land Titles <if Hudson C.miu.v. X. J., 7... 

tOritrinal Lists ,)f Kniijrrants. etc. published in L.indon. IS71 . 4+s. isj. 



HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 5f,<) 



emigrant, ) who married on September 14, 1705, Sarah Smith, a o-rand- 
daug-hter ..f Major John Kerry of Hackensack; who was Deputy (iov- 
ernor of East Jersey in l(,72-3. and Deputy Governor of East Jer- 
sey m l(,8i); vSamuel (who was one of the Justices of Bergen 
county in 1753-54) who married Hester Lozier February 2(., 17M,\ 
Samuel James Moore who married Sarah Day, December, 1776, and next 
in line come the grandparents of General James Vreeland Moore, our 
subject, James and Sarah Moore, who were married September 17, 17')(,. 
His parents, Samuel J. Moore and Clarrissa Vreeland were m'arried 
November 11, 1823. 

The maternal ancestors were Hollanders being tirst represented bv 
Michael Jansen who emigrated from Broeckhuvsen, North Brabant, 
with his wife, Pytje Hartmar, and their two" children in the ship 
Rensselaerwyck, October 1, 1630. After the arrival of Michael Jansen 
in the New Netherlands, he settled first at Greenbush, opposite Albany, 
and remained there for several years. In 1644 he became a resident of 
New Amsterdam, and in 1646 he removed to Communipaw, New Jersey. 
The same year he was one of the nine representatives of Pavonia ; 
and again in 1649 and 1650. He was one of the first Magistrates of 
Bergen. The farm which he had agreexl to purchase of Jan Eversen 
Bout, for 8,000 Florins— about the time of his removal to Communipaw, 
or shortly, thereafter— he completed the payments therefor and obtained 
deed September 9, 1656. He died in 1661. 

On May 12, 1668, Fytje Hartman (widow of Michael Jansen), ob- 
tained two patents from Governor Philip Carteret; the first being 
apparently to perfect title to the farm purchased of Jan Eversen Bou't 
in 1656; and the second for land west of and adjoining that described in 
the first patent. These two tracts of land are now in Jersey City. Fytje 
Hartman died vSeptember 21, 1697. 

The next in direct line were Cornells Michielse Vreeland and Metje 
Dirkse Braecke, married March 12, 1681; Michael Vreeland and Jenneke 
Helmighse Van Houten, married October 23, 1713; Jacob Vreeland and 
Wintje Duryee married 1769, and the grandparents of General Moore, 
Michael Vreeland and Rachel DeGroot, married February 13, 1796. 

General Moore was born in New York city August 18, 1824. He 
first attended school at the village Academy, of which Stephen Runyon 
Martin was the principal, ana subsequently attended Chamberlain & 
yumn's Classical vSchool; at that time located on Broadway near Grand 
street. After leaving school his first business engagement was as a 
clerk in the dry goods establishment of Blauvelt & Crum; afterwards 
being employed by Zabriskie & Van Riper, in Greenwich street. With 
the imward move of business, trade necessarily gave place to industries 
which sought the districts nearest the great lines of transportation. 
Sixth Avenue and Twentj-third Street now have a large share of the 
dry goods business, which was then in the down town streets. In Mav 
1852 he and his brother Stephen H. V. Moore, purchased a farm in that 
part of English Neighborhood n(.w known as Leonia and removed from 



570 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

New York city to their farm; on wbicli thev have resided ever since — 
now more than forty-seven years. 

Possessed of. good judgment, high moral character and steadfast 
purpose Mr. Moore could not fail to succeed in his undertakings. That 
he commands the respect of those who know him is proven by the 
recognition accorded in the various walks of life in which we find him. 
His military record is a good index of his popularity. At the time the 
National Guard of New Jersey was organized he commanded Companv 
B Second Battalion, New Jersey Rifle Corps; which became Company A 
Second Battalion, National Guard, April 14, 1869. He was elected 
Major, Second Battalion, National Guard, New Jersey, October 8, 1872 ; 
I^ieutenant Colonel May 4, 1885 ; Colonel of the Second Regiment June 
18, 1892 and was retired at his own request April 25, 1893. Colonel 
Moore was brevetted Brigadier General upon the date of his retirement. 
The Second Battalion, under General Sewell, was in the service during 
the railroad riots of 1873. General Sewell in his report to the Adjutant 
(General of the State makes mention among others — of the "Second 
Battalion under Major Moore as a credit to any command in either peace 
or war." 

General Moore has taken an active interest in the affairs of his 
locality, having been a member of the Township Committee of the old 
township of Hackensack, for a term of three years, besides holding- 
other local offices. He has also been Councilman of the borough of 
Leonia from the time of its incorporation to the last election, when he 
declined a unanimous renomination. He has also served two terms as 
President of the Borough Council. 

The General is an associate member of the Military Service Institu- 
tion of the United States, and member of the New Jersey State Rifle 
Association. 

He was married to Miss Caroline Palmer, eldest daughter of John 
and Cynthia (Swift) Palmer, of Brooklyn, N. Y., June 29, 1868. She 
was born in the city of New York March 26, 1830, and died at Leonia, 
N. J., June 20, i884, leaving one daughter, Ida Cynthiella Moore, who 
was born June 14, 1869. She married Frank Irving Barrett, April 21, 
1S96. They have one son, Roydon Moore Barrett, born June 12, 1898. 

Mrs. J. Vreeland Moore, nee Palmer, was a descendant in the sev- 
enth generation from William Palmer, who emigrated from New Eng- 
land to the town of Westchester, Westchester county, N. Y., in 1862-3. 

*Of the twelve trustees of the town of Westchester in 1692, three 
were sons of the said William Pahiier, viz: John, Joseph and Samuel. 
The names of all the trustees are inscribed in a full warranty deed 
executed by the Indian chiefs Maminepoe and Wampage, as proprietors 
of a large tract of land lying east of the Bronx River, and extending 
to Pelham Neck, "within the limits and bounds of the patent of the 
county town of Westchester, in the province of New York," by which 

"History of the Couiitv of Westchester. X. Y., fmin its tirst settlement, by Rev. Robert Bolton. 
Jr. First edition, is+s . Vol. II. ITS-li. 





4^^/ ^y^</C>m^^ 



HISTOKY OF BKKGEN COUNTY 



the title thereto became vested in said trustees and successors, as rep- 
resenting said town. 

STEPHEN H. V. MOOKE. 

Stephen H. V. Moore was born in the city of New York, June 18, 
1828, where he resided until 1852, when he removed to his present home 
at Leonia, then known as Enylish Neig-hborhood, and enf^ag-ed in agri- 
culture. 

He was educated in the English branches at the Academy of Stephen 
R. Martin, and in classics, mathematics and civil engineering at the 
High School of Isaac F. Bragg in the city of New York. 

On November •>, 1852 he married Julia Frances, daughter of Alder- 
man William Tucker of New York city, and a descendant of the seventh 
generation from Henry Tucker, who emigrated about 1627 from the 
county of Kent, England to the Colony of Massachusetts Bay.* She 
was born July 15, 1833 and died March 23, 1881. Their children are 
Clarissa, born April 9, 1854. wife of Captain Henrv R. (loesser; 
Josephine: born August 12, 1855; Julia Lavinia, horn Julv 18, 1857, 
died June 2(>, 1858; Henrietta, born June 28, 18()(), and James Vreeland, 
born February 6, 1863, who married Sarah Banta Edsall, daughter of 
Captain John S. Edsall. They have one child, Harry Edsall, born July 
6, 18'»2, 

Mr. Moore was trustee of Central School District No. 11, Hacken- 
sack township from 1858 to 1866, a period of nine years. He was one 
of the township committee of Hackensack township in 1861, and for 
Ridgelield tov>^nshii) in 1874 and 1875, and again from 1878 to 1880. 
He was chosen Freeholder of Ridgefield townshij) in 1881, holding the 
oifice continuously for nine years. 

Major Moore traces his paternal ancestry in America back to l(>71-2. 
His father Samuel J. Moore, was born in English Neighborhood, Bergen 
county, N. J., October 11, 17'<7, married Clarissa Vreeland, November 
11, 1823, and died .\pril 24, 1832. James Moore, father of Samuel J., 
was born October 1'), 17(>7 and on September 17, 17'>6 married Sarah 
Moore, (his second cousin), who was born in May 22, 1778. Samuel 
James Moore, father of James, was born April 1'), 173'l, and married in 
1776, Sarah Day, who was born June 5. 1744. The ])arents of 
Samuel James Moore were Samuel Moore, bajJtized October 4, 1712, and 
his wife, Hester Lozier, baptized December 16, 1711 Samuel Moore, 
father of this Samuel, was born in New York in 1673-4. He married. 
September 14, 1705. Sarah Smith, (third daughter of Lieut. Michael 
Smith). He was the youngest son of Samuel and Naomy Mo(ire, who 
emigrated from the English Island of Barhadoes in 1671-2 to IJoston, 
where their eldest son. Francis was born. 

On the maternal side, the mother, Clarissa Vreeland, was born on 
the west bank of the Hudson River (opposite the present Riverside 

•James Tucker, a descendant of the third (reneratum i.f the aforesaid Henry Tucker rem.ived 
frnm Connecticut wiOi his wife Leali. to the Providence of East New Jersey in ITls, and settietl at 
Deal, where lie owned a lari-e I'lanlation. They were members of the Society of friends, as were 



574 HISTOKY OK BEKGEN COUNTY 

Park), November 18, 18(1(1. and died October 25, lS7t>. She was the 
daughter of Michael Vreeland, born October 11, 1770, and Rachel 
DeGroot (his second wife ) born May 25, 1775. They were married Feb- 
ruary 13, 1796. Michael was the son of Jacob Vreeland. born March 11. 
1737, and Wyntje ( Lavinia ) Der Yee, the record of whose birth was lost 
during- the Revolution. They were married in 1769. Jacob was the son 
of Michael Cornelise Vreeland, born September 18, 1694, and Jenneke 
Helmighse Van Houten, who were married October 23, 1713. The par- 
ents of Michael Cornelise Vreeland, were Cornelis Michaelse Vreeland. 
born June 3, l()f)(l. and Metje Dirkse Braecke, who were married May 
12, 1681. 

LOKENZO frISMOND. 

Lorenzo Gismond of the firm of Tarrant & (iismond. Jewellers, 
New York, has been one of the leading factors in the borough history 
of Leonia, having been the projector of that municipal incorporation 
and identified with it officially, from its organization. Mr. (jismond is 
a grandson of George F. and Rebecca (Earle) Schor, both families 
early settlers of English Neighborhood; and son of Emanuel (j., and 
Louisa (Schor) Gismond, whose lives were spent in this part of Bergen 
county. Mr. Gismond was born in Leonia. N. J., February 5, 1859. and 
here his school life began and ended. His early business connections 
were with his father, who was a coal merchant. In August 1887, both 
his parents died leaving him administrator of the estate, after which he 
went into business in New York. About this time he began to take a 
lively interest in the affairs of his township and county. As a member 
of the Republican party, his services being considered invaluable, ap- 
pointments to positions of trust followed, the more important being his 
connections with the county organization, he having served two terms 
as member of the Executive Committee. Being public spirited he was 
the first to see the importance of securing the benefits that would come 
to his own village under the law of 1879, and under his direction more 
than to any other, the incorporation of the borough of Leonia was car- 
ried to a successful conclusion; and largely to him as a member of the 
Council from the time of this organization, has been delegated the 
duties belonging to the more important committees. 

He was indentified with the military organization of his town, 
having enlisted as a jjrivate of Company A. of the Second Battalion in 
December 1877. his father Emanuel G. Gismond being first lieutenant of 
that Corapan}'. In 1887 he was made sergeant; second lieutenant Janu- 
ary 9, 1892; and first lieutenant April 12, 1892. in which capacity he 
was mustered in the United States service at Sea Girt, May 2. 1898 and 
mustered out November 17, 1898, at Paterson, N. J.* 

After the death of Mr. (iismond's parents, the jewelry business was 
inaugurated in a small way in New York. In time a partnership had 
been formed with Mr. (ieorge Tarrant, who is a ])ractical jeweler, and 

Siv Hislor.v .if C.iin])anv K. Scci.n.i K."..'iin,-iit N, i;.. N. J. 



/^ 







^/t^M^n. M. ^^^. 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 577 

under the able manasjement of these two experienced men, the business 
soon demanded larger quarters causing- the removal of oftices to the 
present commodious rooms on Maiden Lane. As Manufacturing Jewelers 
and Importers of Diamonds the firm of Tarrant & Gismond is well 
known to business houses throughout the United States. 

JULIUS hkkbekt clakk. 

Julius Herbert Clark, of Leonia, a well known educator in the state 
of New Jersey, is a son of Harman and Sarah J (Clausen) Clark, and 
was born at Beemerville, Sussex county, N. J., December 22, 1852. His 
paternal grandfather was Isaiah, son of James Clark, and his maternal 
grandfather was Elias Clausen. His elementary education was received 
in the public schools of his native town, supplemented by an advanced 
course in the Connecticut Literary Institute, at Suffield, Connecticut. 
Upon the completion of his course in the Institute he began teaching in 
the public schools of New Jersey, spending his first year in Sussex 
county. Following this he taught seven years in Warren county, and 
from there was called to Stroudsburg, Pa., where he spent two years as 
instructor in the Collegiate Institute. Returning to New Jersey he 
taught in the schools of Leonia, Bergen county, for a period of fourteen 
years, after which he was one year in New York city and one in Ridge- 
field, N. J. Mr. Clark holds life certificates, obtained upon examination 
in the states of New York and New Jersey. 

He served on the Board of Examiners for teachers' certificates in 
Bergen county, for a term of three years, having been appointed by 
superintendent John Terhune, and also served four years as assessor of 
borough of Leonia. In 1888 he was appointed by Collector Magone to a 
position in the Auditor's Department of the Custom House in New York, 
but resigned after a few nn^nths to resume school work in Leonia, at an 
increased salary. Mr. Clark's military record began with his enlistment 
in Company A, Second Battalion, N. G. N. J., December 30, 1884. He 
was made corporal June 17, 1889; sergeant December 3, following; first 
sergeant February 24, 1892, and was discharged at the expiration of his 
term of service, October 9, 1893. 

At present he is a member of the Overpeck Boat Club, of the 
Schoolmasters' Club of New York city, and is Past Regent of Royal 
Arcanum, Leonia Council No. 956. 

Mr. Clark married Miss Louise B. Phillips, December 28, 1875, and 
has three children, Charles H., Fred H., and Mabel Louise. 

HKN'KV G PAKKKK. 

Henrv G., the only surviving child of Benjamin and Martina 
( Bartholf ) Parker, was born in New York city, July 17, 1841, receiving 
his education in his native place. His father was a tinsmith and suc- 
cessful in business, but failing health compelled him to retire to his 
little farm of thirty-five acres, to which he added, by subsequent 
purchases enough to increase his land to sixty acres. Henry (i., and 



578 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

his brdtlier John B., carried on the farm. John married Anna Brinker- 
hoff. and of this marriag-e, their two children John R., and Jennie A., 
are both married. J<ilri B. died July 14, lS").i, at the ag-e of fiftj'-five 
years. Henr}' G. married Mary A. Slocum, April 24, 1861, and b}- this 
marriage have Benjamin F., Margaret C. deceased, Julia M. and H. 
Ue\yitt who is in the Hackensack Bank. His second marriage was to 
Eva McDaniel, April 27, 1886, and bv this marriage is one child, Marie 
E., who was born March 12, 1S87. 

In politics Mr. Parker is a Republican as was his father. He is a 
public-spirited man taking an active interest in all that tends to the 
welfare of this locality, and is especially interested in educational mat- 
ters, having acted as school trustee for many years. JNIr. Parker is a 
successful man in the best sense of the term. His military career began 
by his enlistment in Company I, 22d Regiment, New Jersey Volunteers, 
under Colonel A. G. Demarest, and in the same company with Judge 
Van Valen, serving nine months in the Army of the Potomac. His 
father's first investment was on Teaneck Ridge, where the mother died 
September 27, 1893, aged seventy-nine years, and the father November 
1(), 18'»S at the age of eighty-two. 

Tin-: MABIK FAMILY. 

The Mabie family of Bergen county are descendants of French 
Huguenots, who, during the latter part of the seventeenth century, left 
their native country and found a home first in Holland, and subsequently 
in Long Island. 

John Mabie, one of the founders of the gold pen and pencil case 
house of Roanch & Co.; subsjqueatly Mabie, Todd & Bard of New 
York, settled at Fairview in 1857, where he built a substantial brown- 
stone mansion. 

James Maine, another descendant of this Huguenot family, came 
to Leonia from New Bridge, probably forty years ago. He was a 
carpenter by trade and superintended the erection of many of the first 
houses in Leonia and vicinity. He died July 29, 1893, seventy-five j'ears 
of age. His widow is still living. There were seven children born of 
this union, five sons and two daughters. All the sons mastered the 
trade of carjienter, but none of them pursued that avocation except 
John J., the eldest, who is now foreman of the Erie Railroad car shops, 
Jersey City. The other children are Anna, now Mrs. John Day; Henry, 
an undertaker; Sarah, Mrs. Stephen Annett ; Samuel, formerly one of 
the fireman for Abbot's Piaij Mia-ifa;t )ry, n.)w pr.iprietur of a lieer 
bottling establishment, EnglewTK)d; Walter, now of Jersey City, and 
(ieorge W. Mabie, the youngest of the family, who was born in Leonia 
thirty-six years ag'> and who has been running a butcher's store in the 
\ illage since ISSS. He is Chief of the Fire Department. 

HKNKV W. MABIK. 

Henrv W. Mabie. undertaker, has carried on a successful business 
in his line for over fifteen years in Fort Lee and in New York. IIi> New 



HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 57') 

York repositories are at 1 '»'•.> Lcxing;ton Avenue. He was Justice nf the 
Peace from 1SS9 to i8'H; Police Justice for about five ^-ears; C<.)roner of 
the district for live vcars, and for a period of nearly thirty years was 
connected with the New York State militia, enlisting' on the 31st nf 
August, 1861, and retiring with the commission of iirst lieutenant. 

UNDEKCLIFF. 

The borough of Undercliff is one of the richest municipalities of its 
kind in Bergen county. It has a population of about 1500, has two 
churches, and a number of very important manufacturing establish- 
ments among them being the large chemical works of Goetchius & 
Morgan; the oil wi.irks of John Ellis & Co.; the mciulding works of 
Hinners & Son, also the tar works, color works, and iron fnundery. 
These various establishments give to hundreds of people of this locality 
employment the year through. The territory of this borough extends 
from the village of Shad^" Side to Fort Lee, taking in a portion of the 
latter village and including Shady Side, Edge Water, and Pleasant 
Valley. 

The borough was formed in March 1S'»5, Eido H. Hinners being its 
first Mayor. He was succeeded by Jeremiah Casey the present Mayor. 
George H. Nash was the first Clerk, and E. M. Speer is the present 
Clerk. 

A Catholic Church under the pastorate of Father Purcell, gives a 
place for worship in one of the most picturesque spots on the Palisades, 
although the congregation is not a large one. The E])iscopal Church 
is the other society. 

The village of Coytesville was founded bv Jose])h Covte wlin buught 
a large tract of woodland soon after the war of the Kebellion and laid it 
out in lots. 

CHURCH OF THF M ICDI ATOK'. 

Episcopal services were first held in "Church of the Mediator" in 
1862. This edifice was erected in 185't, and used as a union church 
until 1862, when it was purchased b}* the Episcopal congregation and 
consecrated by Bishop Odenheimer August 7, 1864. Eugene A. Hoffman, 
Dean of the Theological Seminar}-, New York, became the first rector, 
but was in charge only a short time. The first wardens were D. T. 
Baldwin and Lucas S. Comstock. The first vestrymen were John Mc- 
Michael, Frederick Ogden, C. C. Rockwell, John Winterburn and Frank 
Van Woert. 

The Rev. James A. Cameron was here for twenty-one years, and 
during his stay the rectory was built, at a cost of S4000. He was in- 
stalled May, i866. 

The Rev. J. A. McCleary, the present rector, took charge of the 
flock May, 1894. The officers of the church at the present time are as 
follows: Jf)hn Winterburn, Sr., F. W. Winterburn, Jr.. Wardens; John 
Ackerman, Clerk; Col(mel George Laird, Major S. Wood McCave. K. H. 



580 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

Mitt, Edward Fischer, J. Procter, George H. Neild, Georg-e A. Carlton, 
Walter Ellis, Vestrymen. 

The parish has organized missions in Ridgefield, Leonia, Cliff Side 
and Palisade Park. At present it is also carrying on work at Fort Lee. 

BOGOTA. 

This borough is on the Hackensack between that river and Queen 
Anne's road, and has a voting population of about eight}-. It was 
organized into a separate municipality in 1893, Frederick W. Cane 
having been its Mayor till the present time. The village is beautifully 
located but its close proximity to Hackensack of necessity makes it one 
of residences alone. There are no churches in the place. The Bogota 
Paper Company, founded by Rogers & Co., about five years ago and now 
owned by the companv who came into possession of the mill two years 
ago, manufacture ab<.)ut three tons of card board paper daily, and give 
employment constantly to twenty hands more or less. The Riverside 
Planing Mill, operated by Horton & Clayton, successors to Negus & 
Clayton, is the only other manufacturing enterprise in the borough, it 
also being of recent origin. 

The borough of Bogota is named in honor of the Bogart family, 
who first occupied these lands. The ancestors of this family came to 
America from Holland locating first some time prior to 1661 in Long 
Island, but subsequently removing to Bergen county, where Peter Bon- 
gart bought the farm still ovmed by his decendants. Ruloff Bongart, 
son of Peter and grandfather of Judge Peter Bongart, was the last to 
spell the name as written above. 

FREDERICK W. CANE. 

Hon. Frederick W. Cane, Mayor of the borough of Bogota and a 
member of the firm of William H. & F. W. Cane, contractors and build- 
ers, of Jersey City, is well known in business circles throughout the 
country in general. As a contractor he comes of a long line of ancestors 
whose operations have been on an extensive scale, his father and grand- 
father in particular, having been connected with large undertakings in 
different cities throughout the country. William H., the father of the 
subject of this sketch, now in his seventy-ninth year, is still in business, 
having the energy and capability of men but half his age. His wife, 
Mrs. Sarah Elizabeth ( Rennie ) Cane, lies in a vault in a Jersey City 
cemetery. Mr. Frederick W. Cane was born in Montreal in 1844, and 
in 1848 the father moved to Brooklyn, N. Y., and soon afterwards to 
Jersey City, in which latter place offices were opened at 240-242 Twelfth 
Street, and also in the Second National Bank Building, both of which 
places still remain the headquarters of the company. Mr. Cane was 
fitted for the arduous duties of his important business career in the pub- 
lic schools of Jersey City, subsequently graduating from Nugent's Com- 
mercial College, corner of Montague and Court Streets, Brooklyn, taking 
his diploma from that institution in 1S()4. He then become identified 




I'KKDIiKIL'K W. C Wl-; 



HISTOKY OF BERGEN COUNTY 58.^ 

with the above named tirm, since which time the company of W. H. & 
F. W. Cane have undertaken many mammoth enterprises, carrying; them 
throug-h to successful completion. They plan for work only ona larg-escale, 
and build warehouses, docks, hotels, railroads and electric light plants, 
carrving on business in various sections of the country at one and the 
same time. Being- a practical builder, and having- knowledge of archi- 
tectural structure, Mr. Cane's services :is an adjuster of fire losses have 
been eagerly sought by the assured. In this capacity he has adjusted 
some of the largest losses known to the insurance companies in the city 
of New York. Although owning numerous houses in Hoboken and Jer- 
sev Citv, Mr. Cane, lured by the pleasures and privileges incident to 
country life, sought a home in the village of Bogt)ta. In 1893, from the 
time of his coming here, he has been an active participant in all move- 
ments looking to the public welfare, and to promote healthy and invig- 
orating exercises for the young men of Bogota, Mr. Cane built a boat 
house and formed a boating association as a means to that end, giving 
to them both pleasure and profit. He was quick to see the advantages 
of borough government, and through his efforts, principally, that organ- 
ization was effected in 1894, when he was elected the first mayor, con- 
tinuing in office until the present time. It is due to the people of Bogota 
to sav, also, that its government is one of the most economical and one 
of the best of its kind in the county. 

Mr. Cane has been identified with different companies as director, 
\ice president and president, is a member of high degree in the Masonic 
order, and belongs to various other organizations. Mr. Cane was mar- 
ried to Miss Kate A. Ed-^\-ards of Brooklyn in 1807, the daughter of 
Captain Edward Edwards of that city, and three children were born to 
this union, two daughters, Caroline Augusta married and living in 
Boston, and Gertrude Louise also married, and living in Jersey City, 
and one son William H., Jr.. who is with his father at Bogota and is 
al)out to become a member of the linn. 

MAX K. KK IN KM AN", D. I). S. 

Max R. Brinkman, D. 1). S.. an accomi)lished dentist of Hacken- 
sack, was born in Hartford, Conn., in ISdd. P^ducated in the public 
schools of New Haven. Conn., an<l was graduated from its High School 
in 1S77. He supplemented this l)y a course in mechanics, and after- 
wards served full time in learning the trade in cutlerv and surgical 
instrument making. 

He then took up the study of ilentistry in 1SS2. under the instruc- 
tion of a preceptor. Dr. G. H. Smith of Holyoke, Mass., with whom he 
remained one year, immediately thereafter entering the New York C(>\- 
lege of Dentistry, from which institution he was graduated March "I, 
18S.^, with the degree of D. D. S. 

Dr. Brinkman then began the i)ractice of his jtrofession in the citv 
of Ne-w Haven. Conn., making a s])eciality of crowning and bridging. 
He continued here inuil IS'Ml. when he came to New York and hecanu- a 



5S4 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 



member of the firm of F. A. Ring-ler Co., manufacturers of Printing 
Plates, remaining- with them until January. 1899. at which date he 
opened an office for the practice of dentistry in Hackensack. 

Dr. Brinkman was married in 1889 to Miss Anselma Stolz, of New 
York cit3-, and resides at Bogota, where he erected a beautiful residence 
in 1896. 



CHAPTER XXIX. 
THE Te)WNSHIP OF ENGLEWOOD. 

GENEKAL DESCRIPTION — CIVIL LIST — CITY OF ENGLEWOOD — THE NEW VIL- 
LAGE AND ITS PROMOTERS — HOTELS — NEWSPAPERS — CHURCHES — 
SCHOOLS — ORGANIZATIONS — BIOCiRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 

The township of Enjrlewood was set off from the old township of 
Hackensack by an Act of the Legislature passed in 1871. By virtue of 
this act the boundaries of the territory are described as follows: "Be- 
ginning- at the Hackensack River, where the road leading from New 
Bridge to Schraalenburgh intersects it. and running thence easterly 
along the middle of said road to the Schraalenburgh road ; thence 
southerly along the middle of the Schraalenburgh road to the inter- 
section thereof with the middle of Liberty road; and thence southerlv 
along the middle of Liberty road to the intersection thereof with the 
middle of the road leading to Cornelius Brinkerhoff's house ; thence 
along the middle of the same to the Tenafly road; thence northerly 
along the middle of the Tenafly road to the south line of lands formerly 
of Jacob I. Demott; and thence southeasterly along the same to the east 
line of the township of Hackensack." 

The first census after the organization of the township in 1875, 
showed a population of 3932. It has since become so densely inhabited 
that a village-like appearance is given to every part of it. In some 
respects portions of it might be called one long continued hamlet, especi- 
ally is this true of the picturesque Phelps villa, and other residences 
on the Teaneck road which form almost one continuous village for 
miles. 

The township is amply provided with railroads and trolley lines for 
the accommodation of travel. The New Jersey Nothern and West 
Shore railroads run parallel through the township, about one mile 
apart, affording rapid and frequent connection with New York. The 
Bergen County Traction Company has a trolley line of cars running to 
Englewood city, which is well patronized, and a branch of this road 
runs to Hackensack connecting with the main line at Leonia. 

The village oi Highwood is an extension of the northern part of 
Englewood, and occupies high level ground. It contains a railroad 
station, a church, a store, and many beautiful residences. The streets 
are well graded and the grounds artistically laid out. Teaneck Ridge 
named from Teaneck road, now Teaneck township, was set off from 
Englewood in 1895. Englewood Cliffs Borough was also taken from 
Englewood township. 

The act of the Legislature for the erection of the township of 
Englewood provided that the first meeting for the election of township 
officers should be held at Stagg's Hall. The first chosen freeholder of 
the township was Joseph W. Stagg, who held office for the years 1871-73, 



586 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

and was succeeded by James Vanderbeck for 1874-76, who was followed 
by William Bennett for 1877-79 ; Henry West, 1880-82 ; Silas Wright, 
1883; Georg-e R. Button, 1SS4-8'); W. W. Green, l,s')()-'H; A. D. Bog-ert. 
1895-%. 

The justices of peace have been Ira W. Hover, 1871-7.1 ; Hardy M. 
Banks, 1871-73 ; Joseph B. Miller, 1872-74, 1877-79 ; Philip P. Class, 
1876; George R. Button, 1878-80; Joseph B. Miller, William Ellison, 
1882; William Ellison, 1883; Gilbert W. Chamberlain, 1884 ; Alexander 
Cass, Peter Van Wag-oner, 1885; Alexander Cass, 1886-90; John H. 
Ackerman, Bavid C. Van Horn, 1891 ; Henry J. BeMott, Patrick H. 
Morris, Charles R. Bailey, Bavid C. Van Horn, 1892; Joseph W. Stag-g-, 
Cornelius Sweeney, 1893; Fred L. Voorhees, Samuel M. Riker, William 
C. Bavis, 1894; Alexander Cass, Bonald Mackay, Bavid C. Van Horn. 
1895 ; Bavid Ireland, John L. Hendricks, 1896. 

The assessors : Baniel G. Bogert, 1871-76 ; Alexander Cass, 1877 ; 
John B. Cole, 1878-80; Baniel G. Bogert, 1883-85; John Henry Acker- 
man, 1886-87: Gilbert W. Chamberlain, 1888-91; Moses E. Springer, 
1892-94; Hezikiah Birtwhistle. 1895-96. 

The collectors: Cornelius A. Herring, 1871-73; Charles Barr, Jr., 
1874-76; Adriance Van Brunt, 1877; Jacob A. Bogert, 1878-79; Thomas 
Russell, 1880-82-84; George Bavis, 1885-86; Henry Cooper, 1887; Thomas 
Russell, 1888; Henry Cooper, 1889-93; James H.Coe, 1894-96. 

Town clerks: Francis W. Van Brunt, 1871-73; Albert A. Coyte, 
1874-76; Richard Bemarest, 1877; Robert Wagner, 1878-79; Gilbert W. 
Chamberlain, 1880-82; Charles F. Valentine, 1883-84; Frank F. Bema- 
rest, 1885; Albert A. Coyte, 1886-87; Edward J. Sheridan, 1888; Thomas 
O'Brien, 1889-92; Robert Jamieson, 1893-95; Fred G. Coyte, 1896. 

Township committee: 1882, Cornelius Lydecker, Henry R. Bailey, 

Mr. Terry; 1883, Henry R. Bailey, Patrick H. Morris, W. C. Bavis; 

1884, Henry R. Bailey, Patrick H. Morris, Isaac J. Zabriskie; 1885, 
James Harris, Henry R. Bailey, Patrick H. Morris; 1886, James Harris, 
Henry R. Bailey, Patrick H. Morris; 1887, Jacob S. Wetmore, James 
Harris, Henr}- R. Bailey; 1888, Henry R. Bailey. James Harris, Jacob S. 
Wetmore, Henry J. Brinckerhoff. (To fill out an unexpired term.) 
1889, James Harris, Abram Tallman, Jacob S. Wetmore. 'To till 
out an unexpired term. ) 1890-91, James Harris, Abram Tallman. Henry 
J. Brinckerhoff; 1892, James R. Harris, Henry J. Brinckerhoff, Abram 
Tallman; 1893, Oliver Brake Smith, Henry Brake Smith, James R. 
Harris; 1894, Joseph Thompson, James Harris, Oliver Brake Smith; 
1895, Joseph Thompson, Oliver Brake Smith, James Harris; 189(), James 
Harris, Baniel A. Currie. Joseph Thompson. 

CITY OF ENGLEWOOD. 

Until the spring of 1859 Englewood was part of the old English 
Neighborhood and was known as Liberty Pole. Prior to that date this 
part of the old township bore its share in the war of the Revolution 
after which for eighty years it was the residence only of a few thrifty 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 



587 



families. In 1858 it was but a mere succession of long narrow farms 
reaching from the valley back into the forest and up the Palisades to 
the Hudson River. The lands comprising the present site of the city, 
were secured by J. Wyman Jones, Esq., and under his management 
months were spent by Hopkins and his assistants iu surveying, laying 
out streets and lots, mapping the surveys of the old town lines, deter- 
mining exact center lines and the corners of different plots in detail, for 
the new village. This work was begun in the autumn of 1858, con- 
tiiuicd through the winter and spring following, the map being filed in 
the clerk's nftice of the county of Bergen, August 15, 1859. The con- 
tract for much of this jiropertv was drawn September 24, 1858. The 
map of the pro]3erty covered six farms, and a lot on the Palisades then 
belonging to John Van Neste of the city of New York, the whole con- 
taining altogether six hundred and twenty-five acres of land. Two ot 
these farms were on the south of Palisade Avenue, and the other four 
on the north of that road. 

The h<mor of being the founder of Englewood belongs to Mr. Jones 
more than to anv other man. 

The selection of a name for the place excited stmie considerable 
interest and not a little discussion. The meeting was at Van Brunt & 
Waters' Carpenter shop, which was situated on the cross-roads running 
between Van Brunts and J. B. Millers. It was presided over by the late 
Rev. James H. Dwight who afterwards took a deep interest in the wel- 
fare and development of the town. The name first proposed was "Pali- 
scena," then "Brayton." and finally Englewood, suggested by Mr. 
Jones, was adopted. 

At that time Liberty Pole tavern was the most important building 
in the place. It stood in the center of Palisade Avenue where it is inter- 
sected by the Tenafiy road. 

The first house erected in Englewood was built by J. W. Deuel on 
the property of J. H. Lyell, Esq., for the purpose of a residence as well 
as a school. Within its walls many of the young men of the town, 
now in active pursuits and professions began their preparation for col- 
lege. It was in the school-room of this building that the Rev. James 
H. Dwight began to preach to a small congregatiim, which -was the 
nucleus of the Presbyterian church afterward organized, and of which 
full mention will be made hereafter. The house built by Robert Pratt 
was erected about this time on the corncY of Engle street and Demarest 
Avenue opposite the Episcopal Church. 

The railroad was completed in October 1859, and among the beauti- 
ful towns to which it gave communication with New York, none proved 
more inviting or grew so rapidly as Englewood. The present beautiful 
stati(m house was opened to the public in 1898. The road did not pay 
expenses for sometime, and run out one train a day when first opened. 
Thomas W. Demarest was its president and John Van Brunt, treasurer 
and director. 



588 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

After the erection of the first houses, and of the schoolhouse, then 
followed the neat stone chapel which was completed in ISfiO. Two years 
later the Methodists erected a church, and the Catholics built in 1862, 
the Episcopalians followed in 1865 and the Christian Reformed in 
1875. The rapid succession of church building indicates the growth of 
the place. In 1869 a Protection Society was formed, for the better 
defense of the people, which soon made itself a terror to evil doers. 
Armed with police authority by the state, sustained by private subscrip- 
tion of citizens and fortified by the services of an experienced officer from 
the New York police, the organization gave the town such a name 
among criminals of every grade, that for years it was singularly exempt 
from predatory intruders. 

Among the first pers(ms who were attracted from the city to this 
place, after the same was laid out were Isaac Smith Romans, Editor 
and proprietor of the Bankers' Magazine and his two sons, Sheppard, 
and I. Smith, Jr., with their three families. Mr. Romans and his sons 
bore a large share of the burden and responsibility of the various im- 
provements which marked the several steps of progress, and each built 
for himself a large handsome stonehouse for a family dwelling. 

The Hon. Hiram Slocum, Ex-Mayor of the city of Troy was one 
of the early purchasers of Englewood lands, as were also Nathan T. 
Johnson and Jeffrey A. Humphrey of New York city, each of whom 
acquired considerable interest in Englewood. He came in 1859 and 
during that year lots were sold to J. W. Stagg, John Van Brunt, Hob- 
art Van Zandt, John S. Messenger, and to Mr. Crowell all of whom be- 
gan to build in a short time. 

In 1860 Francis Howland, Esq.. also from New York, settled in 
Englewood, and his contributions to the town were continued for many 
vears, and in various forms. 

About the same time came Byron Murray, Jr., then cashier of the 
American Exchange Bank in New York, afterwards occupying the same 
position in a large banking institution in San Francisco, and Robert 
Baylis, then assistant cashier in the same bank, and subsequently presi- 
dent of .the Market Bank in New York. Mr. Murray built the Swiss 
house afterward sold to Colonel Washington R. Vermilye, and later 
occupied by his son, W. Romeyn Vermilye, this was one of the large, 
prominent st(me and brick houses of the place. Both these gentlemen 
became ccmsiderably interested in real estate. 

Very soon after, the circle of "new-comers'" was enlarged by the 
addition of John H. Lyell, president of the New York Marine Insurance 
Company, Daniel Drake Smith, president of the Commercial Marine 
Insurance Company, Charles E. Trott, Rev. Dr. Daniel Wise, Darius W. 
Geer, Charles A. Nichols, Livingston K. Miller, Dr. H. M. Banks, and 
James W. McCuUough, all of whom established their family residences 
in Englewood. 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 58'J 

Shortly after came E. W. Andrews, Frank B. Nichols, James O. 
Morse, Charles H. Waterbury, George S. Coe, William B. Dana, Donald 
McKay, Rev. Thomas G. Wall, and Rev. Dr. James Eels. 

Following- these came at different times, with their families, David 
Hoadley, president of the Panama Railroad Company, Elwood Walter, 
president of the Board of Marine Underwriters, Colonel W. R. Vermilye, 
General T. B. Van Buren, afterward consul-general at Yokohoma, 
Jacob S. Wetmore, Henry W. Banks, E. S. Munroe, Dr. F. Markoe 
Wright, Jf)hn Bailey, Lebbeus Chapman, Jr., the Hon. William Walter 
Phelps, afterward minister of the United Stated to Austria, Vincent 
Tilyou, Charles Taylor, Henry A. Lyman, Uzal Cory, Stephen Lane, 
Jr., Hon. Cullin Sawtelle, and others. 

At a somewhat later day the following gentlemen and their families 
became residents of Englewood: William A. Booth, widely known in 
commercial circles in the city of New York and in large benevolent 
societies of the country, and president of the Third National Bank of 
New York; his son, William T. Booth: his brother, Charles H. Booth; 
and his son-in-law, J. Hugh Peters, H. A. Barling, James L. Dawes, 
Oliver H. Shepherd, S. Doughty, the Rev. Dr. George B. Cheever, John 
and Augustus Floyd, J. H. Selleck, Clinton H. Blake, William Stanley, 
Charles T. Chester, Josejih Toyman, S. Hinckley Lyman, William Blakie. 
D. Randolph Martin, Thomas M. Wheeler, Charles W. Hassler, R. L 
Hunter, etc. 

P'roni among tliis list of the earlier settlers in Englewood death has 
already gathered an .ihundant harvest. 

noTi-:i.s. 

The only pul)lic means of communication with New York in earlier 
times was by omnibus, which left " I^iberty Pole Tavern"' every day, 
Sundays excepted, at se\en o'clock in the morning, reaching Hoboken 
at ten o'clock. In the afternoon it reached Englewood on the return 
trip at four o'clock. r.,ong loud blasts from a tin horn, by the driver, 
announced its approach to the places along the way, and from which 
was gathered in the course of the trip, a mixed company of travelers. 
Occasionally there would be a full load of people aboard, but more 
frequently the " bus " would start out with but one or two passengers 
for the journey. " I-/iberty Pole Tavern" was the princi])al hotel in 
Englewood and known far and wide for years., 

Englewood House was built in 1860, and a small hotel near the 
station was opened at the same time. Mr. Kingsley was the first pro- 
prietor of the Englewood House. In 1869 the Palisade Mountain House 
was erected by Senator Lydecker in connection with William B. Dana, 
editor of Financial Chronicle. Unfortunately this elegant structure 
was burned in 1871. The proi)erty is now owned by W. O. Allison. 
There are two hotels at this time in the city for the accommodation of 
the traveling public, and a number of places for the accommodation of 
boarders durinir the heated season. 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY S'tl 

SCHOOI,.S. 

Mr. J. W. Deuel, one of the most th(irou!j;h and successful teachers 
Bergen county has ever had, established the first private school in 
Englewood, using one part of his house for that purpose. Mr. Deuel 
had been engaged in teaching the district school in the ■"Neighbor- 
hood," and foreseeing a demand for a select school, erected his dwelling 
house to serve that purpose. Mr. Deuel was greatly beloved, and pos- 
sessing fine abilities as a teacher, he became the instructor of men now 
engaged in the active pursuits and professions, who prepared for busi- 
ness and college under his tuition. It was in the schoolroom of this 
building, the Rev. James H. Dwight began to preach to a small congre- 
gation, which was the nucleus of the first Presbyterian Church. 

A school for young ladies had been started by S. S. Norton in the 
former residence of Dominie Demarest, and before the end of the year 
1S59, the town had both a church and a school. 

The Seminary for young ladies was still further enlarged and passed 
under the control and management of Professor Jonathan A. Fowler 
and Rev. W. B. Dwight, brother of the pastor, being succeeded by the 
Rev. Thomas G. Wall, who maintained the school until the building 
was accidentally burned. 

An advanced school for boys, which educated many of the youth of 
the place, was established by Prof. August Kursteiner who also opened 
a boarding school <m Palisade Avenue west of the railroad, which he 
ccmducted with assistants, until ISSO. 

DWICHT SCHOOL FOK CrlKI.S. 

The modern Dwight School for Girls has been under the princi])al- 
ship of Miss E. S. Creighton and Miss E. W. Farrar since 18.S'). The 
school is well attended, and its course is adapted to suit the admission 
requirements of any college open to women. Miss (ierrish's Collegiate 
School for Girls has long been a leading school for young ladies of this 
place, also. 

enc;lkwo()1) school fok' boys. 

The Englewood School for Boys was incorjxirated in September, 
1840. The building is situated on an attractive site, and contains five 
recitation rooms and a large, well-ventilated assembly room. 

The course of study covers seven years, the object being to meet the 
requirements for admission to the foremost colleges and scientific schools. 

The military drill is one provisioned for physical development, the 
fatigue suit of the United States army officers being the uniform used. 
Mr. E. A. Brinkerhoft is president of the Hoard of Trustees and Mr. 
John B. Parsons principal of the school. 

lIia.ICON HALL. 

Helicon Hall, situated on Woodland Street, is probably the most 
unique educational institution in the country. The building, designed 
by the principal. Dr. J. W. Craig, is a harmonious adaptation of various 



592 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

architectural desig-QS. The pictures, statuary, a palm garden, a Greek 
theatre, and many other features emphasize the individuality of the 
institution. 

Within the city limits tliere are four public schools, with an attend- 
ance in all of some six hundred and fifty children. The force of teach- 
ers is larg-e and the course of study liberal and C(jmprehensive. Improve- 
ments and changes have recently been made in the school buildings. 

PO.ST OFFICE. 

Postal facilities have been given the people of this vicinity from 
the time of John Van Brunt, who was the first postmaster in 
Englewood. He also kept the first grocery store. During his term of 
office, mail was distributed from Liberty Pole tavern. Following came 
John F. Vanderbeck, J. W. Deuel, Gilbert W. Chamberlain — who had 
the office in the dep(it — H. C. Jackson, John H. Ackerman, Frank H. 
Demarest, Alexander Livingston and James Harris, the present post- 
master, whose commission dates from December 15th, 1897. The office 
maintains a free delivery, four letter carriers, and a money order depart- 
ment. 

The Citizens National Bank was founded in IS'd). Donald Mackay, 
president; Charles B. Piatt, vice-president; Fred. H. Hoffman, cashier. 
It has a capital stock of fifty thousand dollars. The present t)fficers 
are: Donald Mackav, jjresident; Clinton H. Blake, vice-president; Char- 
les F. Park, Cashier. 

NEWSPAPEKS. 

Englewood is reaping the benefits derived from two newspapers, 
publications in both instances issued without bias or affiliation with any 
other interest save that of the public, in the place in which they are 
published. The first of these enterprises ha"d its orig-in in the "Bergen 
County Journal," a Union paper, but went down in 1S(>I). In the fall of 
18()1 Mr. Eben Winton and C. C. Burr, started the "Bergen County 
Democrat." Mr. Winton becoming sole owner in 1862. March 1874 the 
"Englewood Times" was started by Eben Winton and successfully 
maintained as an independent first-class local newspaper. In 1879 No. 1, 
Vol. 1, of the "Englewood Standard," was issued by Tillotson & Litch- 
enberg, proprietors. This paper growing in popularity and financial 
prosperity under the able management of Mr. Tillotson, is now published 
under the name of the Englewood Times Publishing Company. Charles 
Huckin, manager. They bought the plant in 1895. 

Mr. Huckin was born in Englewood, April 17, 1871. His experi- 
ence in Journalism began with the "Oil, Paint and Drug Reporter," a 
New York publication which was continued three years. He was a 
member and secretary of the Board of Education 1897-98, is a member of 
the Natiimal Guard, also of the I. O. (). F., belonging to Hackensack 
Hope Encampment. 

"The Englewood Press" was started l)y Mr. Joseph H. Tillots(m 
1890. It has steadily jfone forward confining attention to the 



HISTOKY OK KKKCIEN COUNTY S'>o 

news of the day. kee])inir pace with the demands (if the times, and the 
needs of an ever i^rowintf citv. In order to meet the exii^eneies ol a 
hiri^-e i)atronag-e Mr. Tillotsoh erected and equipped a huildinii- in all 
respects suitable for his business and is in jiossession of one of the Ijest 
plants of the kind in the county. Mr. Tillotson is (uie iif the public 
s])irited citizens of Englewood, and his name frequently occurs in the 
affairs of the city. His ])a]ier is one id' the land marks of Bcrt;-eu countv. 

TUSCAX T.ODCK, I". AN'I) .\. M. NO. 11.='. 

Tuscan Lodg-e F. and A. M. No. 115, was chartered January l'». 
1S71. First officers were: Peter Rogers, W. M., John E. Wertz, S. W.; 
W. C. Dayies, P. M.; Moses R. Springer, treasurer; Alexander Cass, 
secretary; Jno. H. Hyde, S. D.; Saml. Salters, J. D. ; Jacob Campbell and 
Jos. Conklin, Master of Ceremonies; Jno. W. Dale, Tyler. Theoiiticers for 
1899, are: Edw. Koster, P. M.. W. M.; Jas. W. Proctor, S. W.; M. Frank 
Vanderbeek, J. W.; John Tipper, treasurer; Robert J amieson, secretarj-; 
Jacob R. Demarest, P. M., S. L).; John A. Campbell, J. D.; George E. 
Bearss, S. M. C; Byron (i. \'an Ilorne, J. M. C; Moses E. Springer, 
P. M., Chaplain; Francis W. Phelps, P. M., Marshall; Philip M. 
Weidig, Organist; Peter Martin, Tyler. 

The Past Masters are: William C. Dayies, Moses E. Springer, 
William Bennett, Daniel A. Currie, Robert Steyenson. John M. Booth, 
Jacob R. Demarest, James Harris, Francis \V. Phelps, Edward Koster. 
There are about sixty-fiye members. 

ENflI.EWOOD I.ODdK N'O. 1 ''7. I. O. (). K. 

This Lodge was instituted October 25. iSS.i. It now has a member- 
ship of ninety-three. Its first oflicers were : S. I. Demarest, N. G., 
Albert H. Clark, V. O.; Ahin S. Conklin. R. S.; John H. Ackerman; 
F. S.; Henry West, treasurer. 

The officers for iS'C) are : Charles Brucker, N. C; James M. Gulnac, 
\'. G.; J. E. Demarest, R. S. ; S. I. Demarest. F. S.; John M. Foley, 
treasurer. 

p,\i.is.\nE coi'NCiL, ^■(:)^■.\I. akcanitm, no. 1135. 

Tliis beneficiary order was incorporated under Massachusetts laws in 
Novemljer 1877. The society is secret in part, but founded with un- 
selfish motives, and upon strict business principles and has all the facili- 
ties for successfully promoting its objects. 

The Society was organized March 27, i88'>. Its regents to the 
present time are: 1889, C. O. Dewey; '90, R. P. Wortendyke, '91, C. L. 
Vanderbeek; '92, George Lounsbury; '9.^, M. Mattison; '94, T. H. 
Haring; '95, John Demarest; '96, E. S. Richards; '97, Jacob R. Demarest; 
'9S, F. Meyerhoff; '99, G. W. Springer. 

dwi(_;ht post, no. 1().\ i;. a. iv'. 
This Post was organized March 25, 1S87. It was named for the 
Rey. James H. Dwight who served in the Union Army both as a sohlier 
and as chaplain. 



594 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

THE women's exchange. 

The Women's Exchange was organized in 1887. Mrs. Samuel Dun- 
can, was first President. 

COMP.\NY "F." 

This company was mustered into the United States service at Sea 
Girt on May 14, 1S')8, having been ordered to that place on April 27. 
On May 25, the}- were ordered to Jacksonville, Florida, where they 
remained until about September 1st, when the company was removed to 
Pablo Beach, Florida, and from which point they were ordered North 
and mustered out of service November 17, 1898. 

Every company in the Regiment had some deaths save Company F, 
which escaped without the loss of a single man. In the department of 
rifle practice Company F ranks seventh in the State, while, according 
to the last adjutant-general's report, it was the only company in the 
regiment which received a superior mark for efficiency at the annual 
inspection. Public drills are held in the Armory every Monday night. 
In addition to the active members of the company it numbers among its 
honorary members all of our city's best and most public-spirited citizens. 

Captain Frank S. DeRonde the present commander of the company 
joined the National Guard in June, 1888, as a private; was made a 
corporal in 1890; sergeant in 1892; second lieutenant in 1895; captain 
in 1S97. The company is comjjosed of the representative young men of 
Englewood. 

THE ENGLEWOOD MUTU.VL LOAN & BUn,D!N(; AS.SOCI ATION. 

The Englewood Mutual Loan & Building Association was organized 
May 7th, 1887, and incorporated under the laws of the state of New 
Jersey May 16th. Its first officers were: Samuel M. Riker, president; 
R. S. Maugham, vice-president; Henry Jones, treasurer; William J. 
M. Byrn, secretary. Samuel M. Riker remained president of the 
Association until his death which occurred November 6th, 1898. Mr. 
(iarrv Vanderbeck was elected vice-president June 18th, 1889, and still 
holds that position, having also acted as president since Mr. Riker's 
death. M. E. Springer was elected secretary September 5th, 1890, and 
has continued to serve in that capacity to the present time. George 
H. Payson was elected treasurer, at the annual meeting June 18th. 
1889, and still holds that position. 

The present officers are: — Garry Vanderbeck, vice-president and 
acting president ; M. E. Springer, secretary ; George H. Payson. 
treasurer ; Robert B. Taylor, William C. Davies, R. A. Gorham, Alfred 
P. Thud, Albert Grasing, John S. Westervelt, Jacob R. Demarest, F. 
W. Phelps, Andrew D. Bogert, Garret Fenton, John Tipper, Carl Hall- 
lierg, directors. 

THE ENGLEWOOD I.IBKAKV. 

The Englewood Library was organised in June 1S')0. It wasstarte<l 
bv a number of public spirited gentlemen, among whom should be men- 



HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTS 595 

tioncd Dr. DHiiiel Wise. Dr. Henry M. B(»itli, Mr. E. A. Brinkerli.iff. 
Dwi^^-ht A. J<jnes and Clinton H. Blake. 

Life memberships to the number of seventeen at a cost of two hun- 
dred dolhirs each, were obtained and the monev thus secured was ap])lied 
to the purchase of l)ool<s. There are now six thousand four hundred 
volumes in the liljrarv. 

The officers for 1S'»2-'),". were: President, Rev. Daniel Wise, D. D.; 
Vice President, Elbert A. Brinkerholf; Secretary, Clinton H. Blake; 
Treasurer, Donald Mackay ; Librarian, Miss Anna L. Waterbury. 

The present officers are: Dwig-ht A. Jones, president; E. A. Brinck- 
erhoff, vice-president; C. H. Blake, Secretary; Donald Mackay, treas- 
urer; Harriet R. Prosser, librarian. 

THE ENGI.EWOOD KIE7.D CI.X'B. 

This club was orifanized June ."^O, 1887, at which time the following 
officers were elected: President, Dwio-ht A. .Tones; Vice-president, D. W. 
Evans; Secretary and Treasurer, John E. Curran. 

Articles were filed soon after in the County Clerks office. An 
admirable field on Eng-le street was rented for a term of vears with 
privileg'e of purchasing- the land at a fixed price, and a contract awarded 
for putting' the grounds in order for baseball, lawn tennis, archery and 
wheelmen. On Saturday July '), 1887, the manag-ers opened the new 
grotxnd imformally the feature of interest beingf a ball g-ame between 
a team from the Eng'lewood Field Club and the Rutherford Wheelmen. 

With great energy and in a remarkably short time D. L. Barrett, 
contractor, put the grounds in order, having them graded and rolled. 
A baseball diamond was laid out, cm the north side, a cricket ground on 
the east side, with four earth tennis courts on the south, and behind the 
tennis courts high wire nettings were placed. Two entrances from the 
street for carriages were made, and seats for spectators arranged. 
There was also a handsome little clubhouse erected containing- lockers 
for the use of the members, a bathroom, and a reception room furnished 
with chairs and tables and with curtains at the windows. From a forty- 
foot staff the colors of the Club, a beautiful streamer presented bv the 
ladies, floated to the breeze. 

The grounds were formally opened to the public by a tennis tourna- 
ment begun on Thursday August 2fHh, 1887, ending on Saturday fol- 
lowing. 

The Club is well equipped for every kind of out door and indoor 
recreation. The ground in level as a floor and for tennis or baseball, 
cricket or golfing, is as fine as any in the state. They also have bowl- 
ing alleys, skating ponds and other accommodations for indoor sports. 

There are now over five hundred members belonging to the Club, 
and the total receipts for the year 1898, amounted to six thousand seven 
hundred and fortj^-eight dollars, and thirty-six cents. The officers for 
the year 1899 are: — President, William Dulles, Jr.; \'ice-President, 
David W. Cory; Secretary, Augustus Duryea; Treasurer, Charles J. 
Peabodv. 



596 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

The Golf Club has its own links and its own club-house, both of 
wh-ich are models of their kiud. The membership is larg'e and the 
standing of the club is excellent in every particular. 

A Bicycle Club holds regular meets in the season and has matle 
exceptionally line runs. One of the more recent organizations is the 
Camera Club, which has its head(iuarters on Engle Street. 

EXC;i,EWOOD GOLF CH'B. 

The Englewood Golf Club owns a piece of land between Englewood 
and Nordholf. A Golf Club was formed early in 1896, a club house was 
erected and a course laid out by Harrj- Stark. Sixty-one men and fifty- 
one woman joined the club the first Season. In 1897 fifty acres more 
land was leased and a handsome Club house erected. The organization 
has now over two hundred and fifty members. Thoinas Thatcher is 
president. 

ENGLEWOOD HOSPITAL. 

This hospital at Englewood was organized on the 7th of May, 
l.SS.S, at the residence of Mr. Sheppard Homans. Mr. William Blaikie 
having been called to the chair the following officers for the ensuing 
year were elected: — President, Mrs. Sheppard Homans; Vice-President, 
Mr. S. G. Clarke; Treasurer, Mr. C. F. Park; Secretary, Miss Adeline 
Sterling. Standing committees were then appointed on Domestic Affairs. 
Medicines, and Comforts for the sick, on Visiting and on Finance. 
Mr. Peck, Mr. Frendenthal, Mrs. Currie, Dr. Pianks and Dr. Wells were 
appointed a committee "to secure a suitable building for the hospital, or 
land for the same." On May 7, 1888, steps were taken to secure the 
present grounds which extend from Engle street to the Railroad, and 
soon after the present building was erected by A. D. Bogert, builder, at 
a cost of about five thousand dollars. 

In 1896 a Training School was opened and the tirst class of trained 
nurses graduated in that year. 

The Englewood Hospital has never stood still since its opening, 
and is becoming a larger and better equipped institution every year of 
its existence. The citizens of Englewood have always taken a deep 
interest in its welfare, and generous gifts of money, delicacies for the 
sick, and comforts for the injured have always been freely and graciously 
bestowed . 

The number of patients treated during the year 1898 was three 
hundred. Total expenses for nursing in the hospital was S(),^7(l.f>7. The 
total receipts were $7()88.()'t. 

President, Mrs. Clinton H. Blake; Vice-President, Mrs. J. O. Cle- 
phane; Secretary, Lewis Dawes; Treasurer, George P. Payson; Attend- 
ing Phvsicians and Surgeons, D. A. Currie, M. D.; J. A. Wells, M. D.; 
J. W. B. Lansing. M. D.; J. W. Proctor. M. D.; Consulting Physician, 
E. L. Partridge, M. D.; Consulting Surgeon, L. A. Stimson, M. D.; 
C(msulting Oculist. J. M. Emerson, ^L D.; Resident Physician, Dr. 
Helen A. Lord. 



HISTOKY OK BKKGHN COUNTY 507 



HACKKXSACK WATIiK COMPANY. 

Water was introduced into Eni^-lewood in tS.Si). In April 1S,S7, the 
Hackensack Water Company began to lay mains through the streets of 
Eng-lewood for the new water supply, at which time also it was agreed 
by the Town Committee that forty lire hydrants should be built in June 
of that year, the pipes having been laid, the New Milford Water became 
a hxed fact. 

The citizens next formed the Knglewood Sewerage Association, and 
on July yth of that year it was found that one hundred subscriptions 
had been given to the stock of the company, amounting to twenty-three 
thousand dollars. The tirst directors (d' this association elected were: 
Jacob S. Wetmore, president; Herbert I>. Turner, tirst vice-president; 
Oliver Drake Smith, secretary and treasurer. 

The separate flushing system was put into use, allowing only the 
house waste from kitchens, closets, etc., to be drained oil. Six miles of 
small pipes were laid, fifteen flush tanks and ninety manholes and venti- 
lators were then built for tlie inspection of the interior of the main pipes. 

In the Company's building is a taj) made in twenty-four inch main 
December 1, 18"»2. Charles B. IJrush, chief engineer, was largely 
instrumental in securing water for the city. There are now twelve 
hundred consumers. The officers are: Robert W. De Forest, president; 
E. A. Stevens, treasurer; William Shii)])en, secretary; D. W. French, 
superintendent. Charles H. llrush, the former engineer and superinten- 
dent, died June .^. 1S')7. 

THK KN(;i,i':w()ui) Mivi': association. 
Monday evening, Octolier Idth. 1.SS7, citizens of Englewood lielil 
their first meeting, with Oliver Drake Smith as chairman, to take meas- 
ures against loss by lire. On November 11th they met again to form 
and incorporate a Hose Company. Among tliose prominent in tlie 
movement were Donald Mackay, W. D. Terry, John E. Miller, Jacol) 
Taylor, John H. Ackerman, Oliver Drake Smith, Joseph H. Tillotson, 
H. M. Banks, Charles C. Townsend, (ieorge R. Dutton. On November 
24th Donald Mackay was elected president of tlie Association; Oliver 
Drake Smith, secretary; the Ooverning Board consisting of Donald 
Mackay, Oliver Drake Smith, W. O. Terry, Dr. D. A. Currie, C. F. 
Park, George R. Dutton, J. B. ]5urdett, Fred Hoist, J. F. Fitschen. 
Jacob Taylor was elected Foreman and Charles C. Townsend Assistant 
Foreman. The Associaticm purchased two jumpers with one thousand 
feet (d' hose, ti\e truck ladders, buckets and other equipments. They 
also decided to build a truck house with a tower C(mtaining an alarm 
l)ell. 

BKKOEN CO^■NT^■ OAS COMPANY. 

Bergen County Gas Company introduced gas into the town in 1S(>'(, 
charging first S3. 50 per thousand feet. The tirst oflieers of this com- 
])anv were, Treasurer, W^illiani King; Superintendent, Sanniel !•'. Gold. 



598 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

POLICE DEPARTMENT. 

The protection of the citizens of Enfjlewood, bej^an first in an 
Association formed April 25, 1869, known as the Eng-lewood Protection 
Society, James \V. McCulloh, president. The Society has been one of 
the most effective ones in existence. The officers for 1899 are: Presi- 
dent and Special Police Justice, Donald Mackay; Vice-president, C. H. 
Blake; Secretary and Treasurer, Charles F. Park; City Marshal, 
Charles C. Townsend. 

Armed as it is with police authority by the state, and sustained by 
the pet)ple, this association has proven a protection indeed ag-ainst all 
sorts of evil doers, arrests by the thousands having' been made since its 
existence. 

The protection of the citivezs of Eng-lewood is intrusted to six 
patrolmen under James A. Turhune, Chief of Police, and John T, 
Markam, Sergfeant. The Police Board is under the control of the City 
Council, E. A. Brlnckerhoff, president; Ernest T. Fellows, recorder, 
Cornelius Lydecker, clerk. 

BKOOKSinE CEMETERY. 

In 1876, this site then a wild barron spot, filled with chestnut, 
dogwood and wild cedars, was purchased for a place of burial. The gfrounds 
have recently been enlargfed, and under the charge of its superinten- 
dent, Moses E. Springer, has been made one of the beautiful i)laces of 
its kind in the county. 

ENGLEWOOD PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 

This church is located on Palisades Avenue and is one of the most 
beautiful and most costly church structures in the county. 

The chapel of this denomination once stood on the site of the pres- 
ent church. It was completed in 1860 and twice enlarged, but after ten 
years "was found too small as a place of worship, and was removed stone 
by stone and re-erected within the cemetery grounds. Funeral services 
are now held there at the departure of the dead to their graves. Then, 
too, it will stand a memorial edifice of the first church ever built in 
Englewood. The new edifice is constructed of red and white sandstone. 
J. Wvman Jones and I. Smith Homans, Jr., gave the land on which the 
church stands. Mr. Jones prepared and circulated the subscription 
papers for the needed funds to build the church. A building committee 
consisting of Messrs. Jones, W. R. Vermilye, George S. Coe, James Van- 
derbeck and Jeffrey A. Humphry with Mr. Jones as chairman, was 
appointed June 29, 1S68, The first meeting of this committee to 
organize, was held July 4, 1869, and a report of the building completed 
was made October 24, 1870, its entire cost, exclusive of bell, but inclu- 
sive of furniture, being forty-nine thousand, seven hundred, forty-five 
dollars and sixty-six cents. David Hoadley presented the organ at a 
cost of three thousand six hundred dollars. The bell cost fifteen hun- 
dred dollars and was the gift of Colonel W. R. \'ermilye. After the 
coin])letion of the church the chajiel was rcmo\-ed to the cemetery by 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 599 

Mrs. Emily (). Brinkcrhoff, the only daui;-hter of Colonel Washington R. 
X'ermilve, in memory of her father. 

The eighteen persons forming this ehureh have been members 
from various denominational churches, as follows: seven from the 
Madison Square Presbyterian Church, New York city; three from the 
Church of the Pilg-rims, Brooklyn, Congregational ; two from the 
Westminister Presbyterian Church, Utica, N. Y., two from the Reformed 
Dutch Church. Utica ; three from the Reformed Church of English 
Neighborhood; and one from Reformed Dutch Church, Hoboken. James 
Harrison Dwight, the first pastor was a son of the missionary to 
Turkey, Rev. H. G. O. Dwight, D. D., and was born on the island of 
Malta, October 9, 18.^0. He left Turkey at seventeen, was graduated at 
Yale College in 1852, and thence attended medical lectures in the 
College of Physicians and Surgeons and the Union Theological Semi- 
nary in the New York city. Afterwards he preached in Cherry Valley, 
in New York, and in 1859 in Englewood. 

Mr. Dwight was possessed of great natural abilities, which were 
quickened and greatly aided by a most accomplished education in two 
professions. He was carried away by consumption, dying on the 2d of 
December, 1872, and sleeps in the be.iutiful little cemetery at Engle- 
wood, lamented by his own church and people of the town, who will 
long revere his memory. 

The first pastor of this church took up liis residence in the place 
early in 1859, and held public services on each Lord's day, with the 
purpose of gathering the nucleus of a congregation. In this he was 
cordiall}- sustained by the original inhabitants of the valle}', who gladly 
opened their houses for divine worshij) until, towards the close of the 
year, a more suitable room was i)ro\iiled in the newly-erected school- 
house of Mr. James W. Deuel. 

In the meantime, as the c(mgregation enlarged and interest 
increased, a sum of money was raised by subscription sufficient to build 
a chapel, the foundations of which were laid in the fall of the year. 

In March of 18()0 this chapel was completed, and the first service 
held on the 25th of that month, when a dedicatory sermon was preached 
fr(mi the text, "My name shall be there." 

Thus it became the first church of Englewood, and first Presby- 
terian Church of Bergen county. 

The following individuals were elected as lirst officers of the 
church: Elders, Charles A. Nichols, James X'anderbeck. Sheitjiard 
Homans; Deacons, John Dc Mott, J. Wyman Jones. 

At the first worshiping in the chapel the congregation numbered 
from seventy to one hundred. 

On the tirst day of May, 1S()7, the lirst pastor resigned liischarge_ 
taking leave with sorrow of a warm-hearted and affectionate i>eo])le. 
and of an enterprise with which his affections and labors had been 
identilied from the betiinning. 



600 HISTOKY OF BEKGKN COUNTY 



After an interval of only a few weeks the church and congrega- 
tion voted unanimously to extend a call to Rev. Henry M. Booth, of 
New York. This was prosecuted in due form through the Fourth Pres- 
bytery, and accepted. Whereupon, on the I'Hh of September, 1867, Mr. 
Booth was duly ordained and installed as second pastor of the Engle- 
wood Presbyterian Church. 

Under the pastorate of I\Ir. Booth, the church prospered and en- 
larged both in numbers and in the administration of Christian labors 
and charities. His excellent services as a pastor and" most capable 
preacher closed in 1891, when he was succeeded by the Rev. James 
Eells, who in turn was followed March 1st. 1S')8, by the present pastor, 
the Rev. Samuel M. Hamilton. 

The present officers of the church are: -Elders Henrv W. Banks, 
Elbert A. Brinkerhoff, Henry Jones, Charles F. Park. J. Hugh Peters, 
L. V. Davis(m, Frederick B. Schenck. (iarrv \'anderbeck, Edwin M. 
Bulkley. 

Deacons: — (icorge H. Payson, John W. Pitkin, Stuart IvVinan. John 
F. Fitschen, C. D. Kerr, Theodore L. Peters. 

The West Side Presbyterian Church is a branch of the First Pres- 
byterian Church of Englewood, and was formed in 1S97. the Rev. Paul 
A. Junkin pastor. 

The Scientists have also recently organized a society in the city 
which is growing rapidly. 

The Highwood Chapel service Committee organized for 1899 with 
the following officers : J. C. Thomson, chairman; George Baker, secre- 
tary; N. V. Ketchum, treasurer. 

ENGLEWOOD METHODIST EPI.SCOP.\I. CHl'KCH. 

This organizaticm took its rise in the Summer of 1859, but it was 
not until 1862 that a church building was erected for worship, with the 
Rev. Daniel Wise, D. D., as pastor. It was largely through Dr. Wise's 
enterprise and generosity that the tasteful edifice was constructed. The 
dedicatory services were conducted by the late Bishop Edmund S. Janes 
in December, 1863. Succeeding Dr. Wise, came the Rev. E. Hewitt, 
whose brief pastorate was followed by that of the Rev. Henry M. 
Simpson, A. M., a graduate of Wesleyan University. In 18()() the 
Rev. James B. Faulks became pastor; in 1869, Rev. Edson W. Burr, A. 
M. now a trustee of Wesleyan University. During Mr. Burr's term an 
addition was made to the church edifice at a cost of S5000, and the new 
thoroughly furnished. The Rev. John Coyle, M. D., was his successor, 
remaining in charge one year, when the Rev. Sylvester Bebout was ap- 
pointed in 1873. He occupied the pulpit until 1876, and was succeeded 
bv the Rev. James W. Marshall, D. D., now of Camden, N. J. The 
Rev. C. E. Walton followed in 1879, and his successor in 188(» was the 
Rev. J. (t. Johnston who remained three years. From 1883 to 1886, the 
Rev. Joseph W. Dally ministered to the congregation, when he was 
succeed by the Rev. N. Wallin"- Clark in the latter year. Mrs. Clark is 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY ()01 

a well known autliDress, now rcsidini^ in Italy, where Prof. Clark occn- 
pies a chair in the Methodist Theological School at Rome. Rev. E. H. 
Conklin was the next pastor, appointed in 1<S!S9. In 1891 the Rev. Olin 
B. Coit was minister, who was followed in 1S'»,^, by the Rev. E. S. Jami- 
son, Ph. D. In 1895 the Rev. James I Boswell. I). 1)., became pastor, 
who in turn was succeeded by the present incumbent, .Toseph \V. Dally, 
who is serving his second term in this cong-regation. 

The present officers of the Church are Moses E. Springer, Rufus A. 
Gorham, Henry C. Jackson, George W. Springer, (ieorge G. Weeks, 
Isaiah Huson, Robert Taylor, Jacob R. Demarest, Gilbert Gregory. 
Adolph H. Engelke, Sherman C. .\bramson, .lolin H. Baldwin and A. 
L, Williams. M. E. Springer is president of the Board of Trustees; A. 
H. Engelke is the superintendant of the Sunday School. 

THE CHKISTI.\N' KKFOKjMHD CHVKCII. 

The Christian Reformed Church was organized in Englewood April 
1st, 1875. It was the outgrowth of the work of the Rev. John Y. De 
Baun, of Hackensack, who started the organization by coming over to 
Englewood on Sundays and jjreaching to a circle of friends in Engle- 
wood Hall, Leonia. At the end of two years Henry P. Demarest and 
Hannah Bogert, his wife; Margaret Demarest, wife of Cornelius Wester- 
velt; Sarah A. Bogert, widow, and Ellen Westervelt, wife of Peter R. 
Christie; Rachel Cooper, widow of David J. Bogert, and a few others, 
org-anized the church, with the Rev. John Calvin Voorhis as pastor. 

A. D. Bogert, Catharine M. Demarest, Lettie Westervelt, wife 
of Joseph E. Miller; Hester Demarest, wife of John D. Demarest, 
have been active members, also. The Hon. Thomas W. Demarest 
was the first elder; Richard Earle and Henry P. Demarest were the first 
deacons. The church was dedicated May 25th, 1875, the Rev. John Y. 
De Baun preaching the sermon. Rev. J. C. Voorhis was called August 
12th, 1875, and remained twelve vears, his connection ceasing August 
4th, 1887, when he accepted a call to Hackensack, where he is at the 
present time. He was followed by Revs. Abram Van Houten, March 
1st, 1888, to April 25th, 1892; C. D. De Mott from 1892 to .\pril 2d, 1895, 
the present pastor. Rev. E. Van Den Berge, coming March 1 7th, 1896, 
and who preached his farewell sermon May 21st, 1899. There is a mem- 
bership of about one hundred and twenty-five persons. Elders, John S. 
Westervelt, Isaac A. Demarest; deacons, Abram Demarest, John A. 
Bogert. 

THE EPISCOPAL CHUKCII. 

The Episcopal Church was organized July 11, 18(>5. 'J^he first war- 
dens were John H. Lyell, Charles T. Chester, William King, Richard 
K. Coole, E. W. Andrews and Herbert Turner. The first rector was 
Rev. O. W. Whittaker, now Bishop of Pennsylvania. He was followed 
by Revs. Mr. Benjamin, John H. Elliott, W. S. Langford, — afterward 
general secretary of the Church at large — he died in 18()7,- John 



602 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

William Pavre, James H. Van Buren, and the Rev. Charles F. Flicht- 
ner, the present pastor, who took charge January 1, 1888. 

The present Wardens of the church are W. E. Tillinghast, H. L. 
Congdon. The church has a membership of four hundred and sixty 
communicants. An elegant house of worship is about to be erected. 

ST. Cecelia's church. 

Catholic services in Englewood were held in 1863-64 by Father 
Coardly, followed by Rev. D. Corrigan of St. Mary's Church, Hoboken. 
Then Father Brann took the pastorate and under his able direction the 
church building was erected in 18b6 and under Father Smits was 
enlarged in 1868. He was followed by A. J. Smits, T. J. McDonald. C. 
J. Feehan, A. E. Van Rich, A. M. Murphy. The Rev. A. J. Smits was 
here at different times covering a period of twenty years. The Rev. D. 
T. O'Malloy, O. C. C, came here the last time in 1897. He was gradua- 
ted in Dublin in 1873, came to America in 1874 when he was appointed 
to work in Kentucky. From there he went to Niagara Falls, N. Y., 
coming to Englewood first in 1885, leaving in 1889. Under his efficient 
services the church has reached a membership of about two thousand, 
and is well equipped in various ways through organized effort to meet 
the needs of young men, the education of children and the spiritual 
requirements of all. 

Father O'Malloy is ably assisted by Fathers Fink, McDonald and 
Angelus. He holds three masses on Sunday and two services are held 
at Tenafly by the Rev. I. J. McDonald. A school of two hundred 
children, under the direction of the Sisters of Charity, from Madison. 
N. J., is ably maintained, and there is also a school of one hundred 
children at Tenafly. A Catholic Club with a membership of two 
hundred under the presidency of William Tierney, Jr., the Rev. I. J. 
McDonald, treasurer, and a board of governors, holds regular meetings 
in the Lecture Hall and gives entertainments of various kinds for the 
young and old. The club has a well appointed gymnasium and among 
other equipments has one of the best bowling alleys to be found any- 
where. 

ENGLEWOOD LODGE, NO. 103. 

Englewood Lodge, No. 103, Independent Order of Good Templars 
was instituted April 12th, 1870, with sixteen charter members: It is 
also an efficient organization having influenced during its time hun- 
dreds, if not thousands of persons for good. 

CITY OF ENGLEWOOD. 

City of Englewood March 10, 1896, the village of Englewood became 
a city by a vote of its citizens who favored the change, five hundred and 
sixteen votes being cast for the incorporation and three hundred and 
twenty-eight votes against it. This election was held under the act 
entitled, "An Act authorizing any town, township or borough or part 
thereof containing a population exceeding five thousand inhabitants to 



HISTORY OK BEKCJEN COUNTY 603 

be incorporated as a 'city,' after a vote by the people, and providing' 
the g'overnment and powers of such cities." 

A special meeting of the township committee was called March 12, 
1896, for the purpose of dividing the city into wards. Mr. Thomson 
offered the following resolution: 

The Township Committee of the township of Englewood, pur- 
suant to the lifth section of the Act entitled "An Act authorizing any 
town, township or borough, or part thereof, to be incorporated as a city, 
after a vote of the people, and providing for the government and powers 
of such cities, approved March 22d, 1895," hereb}- divide the city of 
Englewood into four wards as follows. (Giving boundaries). 

Mr. Oliver Drake Smith was appointed Mayor; Mr. J. Hugh Peters 
Councilman from the first ward; Mr. James Harris Councilman from 
the second ward; Mr. Joseph Thomson Councilman from the third ward; 
Mr. Henry Birtwhistle Councilman from the fourth ward; City Clerk, 
Robert Jamieson. 

The following is a list of the officers of the city of Englewood to 
the present time. Elected April 14th, 1896, Mayor, Daniel A. Currie 
City Clerk, Robert Jamieson; Receiver of Taxes, Thomas O'Brien; 
Assessor, Hezekiah Birtwhistle; Chosen Freeholder, James C. Ander- 
son; Board of Excise, George S. Coe, Jr., George R. Van Brunt, James 
M. Gulnac; Members of City Council, Leonard E. Curtis, Edward P. 
Coe, Abram Tallman, William Scully; Board of Education, Huyler 
Bogert, Robert B. Taylor, Francis M. Demarest, Eugene M. Boeheim; 
Commissioners of Appeals, Jacob S. Wetmore, Rufus A. Gorham, Walter 
Westervelt, Ralph J. Demarest. 

Elected April 13th, 1897, Councilman first ward, unexpired term, 
Clinton H. Blake; Board of Education, Miss Adaline W. Sterling, 
Robert B. Taylor, Joseph M. Cooper, Charles Huckin; Board of Excise, 
George H. Payson, Edward J. Irwin, Henry Booth, James M. Gulnac. 

Elected April 12th, 1898, Mayor, Daniel A. Currie; City Clerk. 
Robert Jamieson; Receiver of Taxes, Thomas O'Brien; Assessor, James 
C. Thomson; Chosen Freeholder, Andrew D. Bogert; Members of City 
Council, Oliver Drake Smith. Abram DeRonde, James F. Cooke, Heze- 
kiah Birtwhistle; Board of Education, Miss Adaline W. Sterling; Board 
of Excise, George H. Payson, M. Frank Vanderbeek, Frank D. Cana- 
vello, Edward Ouirk. 

Elected April 11th, 1S99, Mayor, Elbert A. Brinkerhoft; Council- 
man-at-large, John Dougherty; City Clerk, Robert Jamieson; Collector 
of Taxes, Tho'mas O'Brien; Overseer of Poor, Hugh Smith; Chosen 
Freeholder, William C. Davies; James M. Gulnac; Members of Com- 
mon Council, James C. Anderson, Robert B. B. Taylor, Frederick L. 
Vorhees, John M. Booth; Assessors, Moses E. Springer, Edson B. Gor- 
ham, James C. Thomson, Henry Birtwhistle; Commissioners of Appeals, 
John W. Pitkin, Garry Vanderbeek, Walter Westervelt, Edward 
O'Hara. 



f)04 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 



J. WVMAN JONES. 

*" It is always interesting- to trace the early life of men of energ-y 
for usually there will be found those surroundings which foster a vigor- 
ous and independent character. This is aptly illustrated in the life of 
J Wyman Jones. Born in the town of Enfield, N. H., he was subjected 
throughout boyhood to the hardy and healthy country life of New Eng- 
land; and the rug:ged aspect of nature, the exhilarating winter, together 
with' a ri"-orous home training, combined to produce a strong and cour- 
ageous youth, eager for a conflict with the world. His father was a 
st'urdy New England justice, prominent in the affairs of his locality, 
and several times a member of the State Legislature. His mother was 
a woman of genuine sweetness and refinement; a direct descendant of 
the famous Hannah Dustin. It was the desire of both parents to keep 
their only son at home, but when his school career at Meriuen Academy 
was ended, he pressed onward to Dartmouth College, where he was ad- 
mitted in \s:^7. In his class were a son of Daniel Webster, Edward 
Webster, who died in the Mexican war; Rev. Dr. Leonard Swain, of 
Nashua,'N. H.. and Gardiner G. Hubbard, Esq., of Washington, D. C. 
Upon graduation, in 1841, he could not be persuaded to locate at 
home and^although put wholly upon his own resources, he began the 
study" of la^v iaNew York city. In 1843 he was admitted to the New 
York bar, and foftwenty years followed his profession, the latter part 
of the time af Utica, N. Y. Prior to his removal there he married 
Harriet Dwight Dana, daughter of James Dana of Utica, and sister of 
Professor James D. Dana of Yale University, who survived until 1882. 
At Utica Mr. Jones made many warm friends in his profession, includ- 
ino- the late Justice William J. Bacon, Senator Kernan, Joshua Spencer, 
and Senator Conkling. But advised by his physician that he must lead 
an out-of-do.)r life, he reluctantly relinquished the practice of law to give 
himself to rural pursuits, alth..ugh still retaining his interest and mem- 
bership in the New York bar. In 1S5S, by invation of a former client, then 
en-a-ed in surveying the Northern Railroad of New Jersey, he made an 
examination of the prop..sed route, and being impressed by the natural 
beauty of the country, with characteristic daring determined to throw 
himself heartily into" the developmeut of the regi(m where Englewood is 
now located. He spent the summer <,f 1S5S in securing property rights 
from the ori-inal owners, and by the autumn of that year had control ot 
nearly all the land now occupied by the village. He proceeded to lay 
out the town to name its streets, and to procure a survey and map of its 
territory By the spring of 1859 he had moved his family to the new 
place and had gained for it the support of several valuable friends. In 
this same spring at a meeting of the residents, the name Englew.od. 
su-<^ested and advocated by him, was adopted. Since that time Mr. 
Jones has been prominent in the secular and religious life of Englewood, 
and he still maintains a keen interest in its growth and welfare. He 

„, „ i„ ,„e ■■ M,-m..ri.-,l llismry of Ihe city of N.-w York and flu. Hudson Riv.T 



V^llle 




I 



4iA.^ 




HISTORY OF BEK<;EN COUNTY 607 

has had the satisfactiun of seeiiiii- it develop pursuant to the g-oneral 
plan formuhited liv himself, into a beautiful and progressive suburb of 
New York city. In 1S()5 Mr. Jones became president of the St. Joseph 
Lead Companv, a corporation manufacturinuf and mining- lead in the 
state of Missouri; and bv persistent energy he has raised the Company 
to its present position as one of the largest lead producing concerns of 
the United States and the world. With this Lead Company are also 
associated a railway corporation having- a road forty-eig-ht miles in 
length, and a cattle and farming company transacting- a large business, 
of both of which Mr. Jones is president. He is also president of the 
Doe Run Lead Companv. During the thirty years of his presidency of 
the St. Joseph Lead Company, he has sjjent much of his time at the 
mines of Missouri, where now there is a prosperous community. During 
this entire period there has never been a serious strike among the men ; 
it having been one of the chief concerns of the company, under the 
leadership of Mr. Jones, not <inly t<i treat its employees fairly, but also 
to aid in every undertaking- which ])romised to contribute to their i)leas- 
ure, or their moral or physical welfare. 

In politics Mr. Jones has been a Kepublican since the days of the 
I'Vee Soil ]-iartv. At the outbreak of the civil war, while deep in his 
work at Englewood, he was an ardent Northerner, frequently speaking 
at ])ublic meetings. He was many years Chairman of the Republican 
County Executive Committee, and was chosen a delegfate-at-large from 
the State of New Jersey to the Presidential Convention of 1.S72. In 
lS7<i he was elected a delegate to the State Convention by the Engle- 
wood Republicans after he had declared himself friendly to Senator 
Conkling-, and opposed to Hon. James (i. Blaine, and subsequently by 
the State Ccmvention was elected a delegate to the Presidential Con- 
vention at Cincinnati. There, with five other New Jersey delegates, he 
refused to vote for Mr. IJlaine, and voted on the first and every ballot 
for Mr. Hayes, who was nominated by the Convention. While this 
course was distasteful to the Blaine adherents, so far as Mr. Jones was 
concerned it was in accord with the declarations he had jireviously 
made, and with the decision of his Englewood constituents. In late 
years he has taken no .-ictive i)art in politics, but maintains a loyal 
adherence to his party, and an earnest concern for the country's pros- 
perity. 

Personally Mr. Jones is a courtly gentleman who is thoroughly 
American, and he counts his friends among all classes of men. He 
possesses a keen insight into human nature, and judges quickly and 
accurately. He is reserved in manner and refined in his tastes. In 1<SS() 
he married Mrs. Salome Hanna Chapin, of Cleveland, Ohio. During 
the winter season they reside at Thomasville, (leorgia, where they have 
a vSouthern home of rare attractiveness, and where Mr. Jones has inter- 
ested himself in the development both of the aesthetic and the practical 
sides of the town. They also have a charming summer home at Bolton 
Massachusetts. 



608 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

HON. JOHN' VAN BRUNT. 

Hon. John Van Brunt was one of the promotors of the Northern 
Railroad, and a resident of Eng-lewood Township from 1834 to the time 
of his death June 20, 187'». He was born in Brooklyn, N. Y. February 
17, 1802, and before coming to Englewood was engaged in the grocery 
business in West Street, New York, for eight years. In 1830 he mar- 
ried Margaret daughter of Peter Westeryelt, Jr., of Englewood, and 
four years later took up his residence on the farm where he resided until 
his decease. 

He took an especial interest in the cause of Education and the 
office of Town Superintendent was filled by him from 1847 to 18(>7- 
or during the whole time the provision made by that law was in 
existence. He was one of the organizers of the Bergen County Mutual 
Assurance Association; was a member of the State Senate from 1S4'» to 
1853 and held other positions of trust. 

DR. H.\KDV M. BANKS. 

Dr. Hardy M. Banks, the youngest of five children was born on 
August <», 1 830 at Murfresboro, N. C. His father Hardy M. Banks, was 
a planter at Murfresboro, where his son was educated. He died there 
in 1 84 1. In i846 young Banks began the study of medicine in the office 
of Dr. James B. Gilbert of Savannah, Ga., and one and a half years 
afterwards entered the office of Dr. John F. Gray a leading homeo- 
pathic physician of New York city. He was gratuated from the Medi- 
cal Department of the University of the City of New York in i84*>. 
Not being of age at the time of his graduation Dr. Banks went to Paris 
and attended the lectures of the ''Faculty of Medicine" for two years, 
and attended lectures of that famous writer on medical therapeutics. 
Dr. Trousseau, a professed believer in the palliative treatment of 
.■\llopathy. 

In 1 852 Dr. Banks received his diploma from the University of the 
City of New York and at once entered upon the practice of his profes- 
sion in that city, and soon afterwards became associated with Dr. A. D. 
Wilson, a leading homeopath with wht)m he remained until i860. In 
the summer of i860 he k)cated in Englewood. Dr. Banks is very popu- 
lar and was president of the Protection Society of the villiage for a 
number of years. 

DR. D. A. CURKIK. 

Dr. D. A. Currie, Mayor of Englewood, was born October 1(1, 1.S42, at 
Searsville, N. Y. In 1857 he entered as a student in the office of Dr. 
Sanford Eastman, of Buffalo, N. Y., and attended lectures at the 
Medical University of Buffalo, where he was graduated in 1863. He 
afterwards studied at Edinburg University, for two and half years and 
at the close of the year 1867 returned to the United States settling in 
Englewood in the practice of his professicm in 1872. His specialties in 
practice are surgery, and diseases of women and children. He was 



HISTOKY OF BERGEN COUNTY 611 

president of the Bergen County Medical Society in 1876, and is a mem- 
ber of various medical societies. He enjoys wide popularity in Engle- 
wood and upon the organization of the city was elected its mayor. He 
served in the Spanish American War as Lieutenant Colonel of the 
Second New Jersey Regiment. 

GAKKET A. LYDECKEK. 

The Lydecker family are descendants of Ryck Lydecker, who was 
amt)ng the first settlers of Bushwick, L. I., in 1661, where he obtained 
a grant of land in 1660, as recorded on page 54 of the English Manual. 

In the years 1662-63-65 he was magistrate of the town, and was 
appointed captain of the militia June 24th, 1663, as noted on the town 
record. The muster roll contained forty names, including officers, and 
these were divided into watches of ten men each, of whom one watch 
was on duty each night as a guard against attack by the Indians, and 
<m June 22d, 1663, Stuyvesant, the Director General, visited the village 
and ordered a fortification of the place with palisades, as a further 
protection. 

Ryck Lydecker married Claere Voormiere, and their children were: 
(ierrit, born in 1650; Jan, born in 1653; Rj'ck, Cornelis and Abraham. 
It is not probable that Ryck ever lived in New Amsterdam or New Har- 
lem. He died prior to November 28th, 1666. His son, Gerrit, married 
Neeltje Cornelis, from Kuijl, Holland, daughter of Cornelis Cornelison, 
at New Amsterdam, in the Dutch church. May 20th, 1682, and settled 
in what is now Englewood, probably in 16<)1 to 1696. The children of 
this marriage were: Ryck, born May 7th, 1683; Lysabeth, November 2, 
1684; Claere, October 3. 1686; Cornelis, March 13, 1689; Gerrit, October 
21, 1691. These children were all baptized in New York at the dates 
given, except Lysabeth, who was baptized in Hackensack August "Hh. 
1696. 

Gerrit married Weintjen Terhuen, young daughter of Albert 
Terhuen and Weyntie Brickers, (baptized at Hackensack April 1st, 
1705), April 5th, 1723. Their children were: Neeltje, baptized at 
Hackensack, February 2, 1724; Gerrit born at Tappan, N. Y. November 
19th, 1728; Geertijn baptized at Hackensack, May 16th, 1731; Cornelia, 
baptized at Schraalenburgh, March 13, 1734 ; Antjen, baptized at 
Hackensack, March 21st, 1736; Elizabeth, May 28th, 1738; Albert, 
August 10th, 1740. These three were baptized at Hackensack, Marytje 
was born at Schraalenburgh, March 20, 1743, and Neeltje was baptized 
at Schraalenburgh, August 22, 1745. Gerrit G. Lydecker son of Gerrit 
Lydecker and Weintjen Terhuen, was a captain in the Revolutionary 
War and was subsequently a member of the Colonial Legislature. 

He married Lydia Demarest (twin daughter of Jacobus Demarest 
and Margreitje Cozine Herring), baptized at Schraalenburgh July 19, 
1733, marriage record not found. Both became members of South 
Church March 11, 1762. Their children were Gerred, born August 29, 
17.53; Jacobus, May 27, 1755; Wyntje, April 17, 1757; Margrietje, April 



612 HISTORY OK BEKGEN COUNTY 



lf>, 1759; Gerrit, Aug-ust 31, 17()1; Jacobus and Cornells (twins) March 
2S, 1764; Lidia, September 13, 17()(); Jacobus, March 14, 1769; Elizabeth, 
June 2o. 1771, and Maria, March 15, 1774. These were all born at 
Knglewood. 

His son Garrit born August 31, 17(>1, drove one of the wagons 
containing- household goods belonging to the family when they fled 
from the British, and after crossing at New Bridge, the bridge was 
destroyed behind them to prevent the enemy from following. The 
British after landing at Fort Lee came and encamped on the Lydecker 
homestead adding quite materially to their commissary stores by appro- 
priating a number of fat sheep and hogs, which were necessarily left 
behind. Mr. Lvdecker subsequently engaged in agricultural pursuits 
on this farm. He married Annaatje Westervelt, daughter of Ari and 
(ieertje (Zabriskie) Westervelt, (born February 16, 1766) November 
27. 1784. 

Their children were : Abraham born May 23, i7S6; Gertrude, born 
April 16, 1790, married John Edsall of English Neighborhood ; and 
John, born December 25, 1795. Garret Lydecker died April 27, 1848, 
and his wife September 15, 1849. 

Abraham the eldest son of this Garret, was born on the old home- 
stead as given above, and became a farmer, as his father had been. He 
was active and energetic, identified with the interests of his locality. 
He served as freeholder of his township for two terms, and represented 
his district in the Legislature of the state. A man of sound judgment 
and business abilitv he was frequently called upon to act as executor and 
administrator of estates. Mr. Lydecker married Maria, daughter of 
Uaid N., and Maretje (De Clark) Demarest, December iS, i808. Their 
children were Garret A., David, born May 3i, i8i4, died in infancy ; 
Mary Ann, born February 15, 1820, married Thomas W. Demarest, 
and Martha born July 18, 1824, married John Van Nostrand. Abraham 
Lydecker died November 20, 11S41, and his wife tm July 7, i834. 

Garret A. Lydecker was born on the farm on which his son Abra- 
ham afterward resided, in Englewood, on January 5, 1811. He was 
educated in the common schools of his locality and at the Hackensack 
Academy. In 1833 he removed to the farm which became his by bequest 
from his grandfather. Garret Lydecker, and continued to reside here 
during his life. Mr. Lydecker was a Democrat, and in his younger 
days was interested in local politics. He was freeholder of his township 
for three years, and was town committeeman for a period of about fifteen 
years; also holding the position of commissioner of appeals, and other 
local offices. He was a member of the board of directors of the First 
National Bank of Hackensack, and of the Hackensack Savings Institu- 
tion, and a director in the Bergen County Mutual Assurance Society, of 
which his father was one of the founders. He was a member of the 
True Reformed Dutch Church, of Leonia, in which he held the office of 
elder for many years. 




THOMAS \Vn,I.IA:\I I.VDKCKKK 



HISTOKY OF BEKGP:n COUNTY ()1,S 

Mr. Lydecker was married first to Gertrude, daug-hter of Peter J. 
Cole, on August 25, i83f. She was born August 22, 1813, and died 
August 10, 1847. Of this marriage were: Gertrude, who died in infancy; 
Abraham, born January M), 18.^4, married Rachel, daughter of Ralph 
S. and Jane (Haring) Dcmarcst; Rachel, born July 10, 1838, married 
James Christie; Maria, born August i2, 1841, wife of Cornelius Terhune, 
and John, who died in infancy. His second marriage was to Maria, 
daughter of Samuel R. and Elizabeth ( Zabriskie ) Demarest, of Bergen 
county. They were married December 30, 1847. The children of this 
union were Thomas William, born April i8, i849, died October 20, l.s70, 
and Martha, born April 9, 185i, married Silas Wright, of Jersey C'ity, 
died July 29, 1879. Mr. Lydecker died March 16, 1888. 

THOMAS WILLIAM LYDKCKKK. 

Thomas William f.,ydecker, grandson of Garret A., is of Holland 
and French ancestry, having descended directly through the line oT 




KESIDKNCK 



)K TUDMAS « II. 1, 1AM I.VIIKCKKK 



Lydeckers and Demarests, two of the oldest families in Bergen county. 
On the maternal side his grandfather Ralph S. Demarest, was a great 
grandson of Samuel Demarest who was imprisoned in the Old Sugar 
House in New York city, being a true patriot worthy of historical 
notice. The four sons of Samuel Demarest all served in the Revolu- 
tionary war. Ralph S., who was a schoolmate of Hamilton Fish and 
John Jay in New York city, chose the life of an agriculturist, becoming 
a representative man not (mly in business but among men. He was one 
of the projectors of the Northern railroad of New Jersey and was for 
many years a director in the company. He was a member of the New 
Jersey State Assembly from 1854 to 1855, and was also State Senator 
from 1859 to 1861. His daughter, Rachel, married Abraham Lydecker, 
a farmer. Their children were (iarret and Jennie, who both died in 
infancy, Gertrude, Ralph Demarest. Thomas William, and Bessie. 



616 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

Thomas William was born at EuHflewood August 11, 1868. He occu- 
pies the house built in 1803, by his great-grandfather. Garret Lydecker, 
and in which his grandfather Garret A. Lydecker was born January 5, 
ISll. This is the oldest house in Englewood, a print of which accom- 
panies this sketch. 

Thomas William Lydecker was educated in the public schools of 
Englewood. He is a floriculturist, devoting his time almost wholly to 
the cultivation of roses. He began in a small way in 1892, first occupy- 
ing a building covering a space of about eleven by forty-eight feet and 
having on,ly about two hundred feet under glass. His business has 
increased until he now has 25,000 square feet under glass, and does a 
wholesale trade almost exclusively. He is a thorough going business 
man, understanding and carr3'ing out in detail the enterprise he has so 
successfully inaugurated. Mr. Lydecker's father died September 16, 
1885. His mother is still living. 

JAMES LYDECKER 

Another branch of the family descends from James, son of Captain 
Garret, whose son Garret J., was born in i797, died in i880. He was a 
man who occupied a prominent position in the locality then known as 
the English Neighborhood, having large farming interests, and being 
one whose advice was sought in all leading questions of the day. His 
wife was Sarah Ryer, who died in 1862. Their children were James, 
John R., Cornelius, and Maria. John R., was born in i824. He was a 
merchant for a number of years. Afterwards he entered political life 
and served as deputy collector for the port of New York for twenty-five 
years. He was a personal friend of President Arthur and many other 
well known men. He married Elizabeth Ward. They had four children. 
Garrett J., Lieutenant Colonel in the regular army, J. Ward, Robert and 
Ida. He died in i896. 

James was born January i5, i822. When twenty-one years of age 
he went to New York and became station agent for the Harlem Rail- 
road and in one way and another he had been connected with the railroad 
interests until his retirement to private life. In iS()2 he went to Alex- 
andria, Va., where he served the interests of railroad officials as 
conductor in and about Washington for awhile, but in 1864. and for a 
few years subsequently, he conducted a train for the Erie Railroad, from 
Port Jervis up through the Catskills in New York. In i868 he returned 
to Englewood and subcontracted for the building of the Northern Rail- 
road of New Jersey and afterwards wasconductor for a train on this road. 
In 1842 he was married to Miss Ellen Lake with whom he lived fifty years. 
Four children were born of this union. 

CORNELIUS LVUECKEK. 

Cornelius Lydecker a descendant of Dutch ancestry, who emigrated 
Irom Amsterdam, Holland, at an early day, is a conspicuous figure in 
the county. He is a great grandson of Garret Lydecker, and a grand- 
son of James Lydecker and Mariah Day. Mr. Lydecker's father was 
(iaret J., who married Sarah Ryers. Their children were James, John 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY ()17 

R., and Cornelius who was born at Englewood on the ])lace where he 
now lives, April 16, 1827. Mr Lydecker has had a varied experience in 
both public and private life. In 1846, he went to New York as a clerk 
in the dry goods store of his brother John, where he remained two years. 
The gold excitement of i849, attracting him to California, he went by 
the water route sailing around Cape Horn. After a stay of two years 
in the gold regions he returned home and subsequently entered the 
political field, soon after being elected surveyor of highways. Follow- 
ing this he was elected township collector, and in 1862, was elected 
county collector, holding that office five years. In 1872 he was elected 
to the state senate, on the Democratic ticket, being continued in this 
office from year to year until 1875, when he became a candidate for state 
treasurer and comptroller, and for seven years thereafter he was a 
lobbyist in the Senate. In 1871, Mr. Lydecker with William B. Dana, 
editor of the "Financial Chronicle" built the Palisade Mountain 
House. He then took a rest by travelling for a time, returning to 
engage in real estate, building and selling. 

Mr. Lydecker was married in 1852 to Miss Catherine S. Van Blar- 
com, they have six children, Mary wife of Oliver Drake Smith, Mary 
Ryers, wife of Stanly P. Parsons, Elizabeth, Garret in a banking 
house at 18 Wall Street, New York, Katie and Cornelius at Englewood. 
Mr. Lydecker is a member of Masonic Lodge, 114. 

AI.EX.\NDEI< CASS, ESQ. 

Alexander Cass, Esq., Justice of the Peace, Surveyor, Coroner and 
citizen needs no introduction, although many have been introduced to 
him, and some in the quiet retirement of the County boarding house in 
Hackensack have subsequently regretted the necessity of the interview. 
Mr. Cass was born November 20, 1825, at Carlisle, Schoharie county, 
N. Y. When he was about eighteen months old his father died. Some 
two years later his mother remarried and went to Carthage, Jefferson 
county, N. Y., to reside. She died there in 1852. The then juvenile 
Alexander did not accompany his mother to her new home, but was left 
with his maternal grandparents, at Carlisle, on a farm. There he 
grew, and when of sufficient years was sent to the public school, where 
he received a rudimentary education. When he reached the age of 
twelve years he was taken from the school and sent to Albany, where 
for a year he officiated as clerk in a store. At the end of the twelve 
months he returned to his grandparents' home, where he remained for a 
few weeks. Next he was sent to the Schoharie Academy, remaining 
two years. After this he worked for one season on the farm of an 
uncle, but, as he himself says, he did not take kindly to farming. 

He next attended a select school conducted by Prof. A. Smith 
Knight, a most excellent teacher, who was also a civil engineer and a 
lawyer. There he studied surveying and acted as amanuensis. During 
the last six months of study under Prof. Knight he made his home with 
him. He left his tuition Ajiril 1, 1.S42, and became teacher of the school 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY f)14 

in Carlisle where he had received his earlier education. The school was 
known as District N. 4, or the Little York District. He tauj^ht there for 
two and a half years, when he went to an adjoining- district, known as 
Rockville. There he remained live and one-half j-ears. From 1848 to 
ISSO, however, he spent a portion of his time, Saturdays generally, in 
the law office of Mr. John H. Salsbury, at Carlisle. In November 1850, 
Mr. Cass went to Cobleskill, N. Y., where he entered the law office of 
Messrs. T. and H. Smith, remaining until September 1852, as a student, 
subsequently entering the law department of the University of Albany, 
from which he was graduated in April 1853. He was admitted to the 
bar at the April term of the Supreme Court of the State, and the same 
year, at Albany, as an Attorney and Counsellor at Law. Meantime the 
Senior member of the firm, Thomas Smith had moved his law office to 
Albany and Mr. Cass remained with him at No. 51 State Street, for some 
time. He looks back with a justifiable pride tt) the fact that he paid 
most of his way while studying law, with money he saved while teach- 
ing school. One man, Mr. Charles Courter proved his bon ami, and 
advanced him money to enable him to finish his legal course and pay 
graduating expenses, taking Mr. Cass's note, simply, as security. This 
was paid after Mr. Cass removed to New Jersey. 

Mr. Cass came to this state, to Bergen county. May 22, 1853, and 
and through Mr. John Van Brunt was appointed teacher of the Upper 
Teaneck public school. In 1842 the school committee consisted of 
Abram Ely, New Bridge; Abram Carlock, P^ort Lee; and John Van 
Brunt, English Neighborhood. There were then ten school districts in 
the township. In 1853 there were thirteen, as follows: Bulls Ferry, Fort 
Lee, English Neighborhood, Tenafly, Lower Teaneck, New Bridge, 
Schraalenburgh, Kinderkamack, Closter, Upper Teaneck, Central Eng- 
lish Neighborhood, Old Bridge and Palisades. The Coytesville district 
was set off frcmi District No. 11, this year (1898). In Mr. Van Brunt's 
report for 1854 he says: "Eight districts have changed teachers within 
the year. These changes are not so much to be attributed to entire 
dissatisfaction with the teachers as to efforts on the part of the trustees 
to engage the services of such as possess rare abilities. This township 
has now a far better corps of teachers than at any time within the 
recollection of the superintendent." This may be considered a highly 
complimentary reference to Mr. Cass and the other seven new teachers. 

Mr. Cass assumed charg-e of the Upper Teaneck School August 6, 
1S53. The school house was then located on the corner f)pposite the 
present building. About six months after Mr. Cass assumed charge it 
was moved to the present site. He taught in the Upper Teaneck school, 
in all about ten and a half years, but after si.x years and a half he was 
transferred to the Lower Teaneck District, where he remained two 
years after which he returned to the Upper District. This gave him all 
told a teachership of thirteen years in Teaneck. 

Besides his experience as a teacher Mr. Cass had other connections 
with various schools. In 1845 he was elected Town Superintendent of 



620 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COtTNTY 

Public Schools at Carlisle, but could not qualify on account of his age. 
The next year he was re-elected and served for two terms. He moved 
from Teaneck to Englewood in 1865. In 1867 he was appointed School 
Superintendent for Bergen coiinty, being the first man to hold that 
office. He remained in the position two terms or six years in all. The 
salary for the first year was S688, of which he had to pay expenses. 
Subsequently the Board of Freeholders allowed SlflO extra for the 
latter purpose. 

Since retiring from the position of County Superintendent, Mr. Cass 
has acted as civil engineer, been a Justice of "the Peace, a Coroner, and 
has held other offices. 

His first term as Justice of the Peace began in 18()4, and was for five 
years. Mr. Cass is now serving his fiith term as a Justice. He was 
the Town Clerk for Englewood from 1859to 1865. He was Assessor for 
Englewood Township during the years ISTfi-??. He served his first 
term as Coroner, 1878 to '81, and his second term 1892 to '95, the term 
expiring in November. Mr. Cass has also served several terms as Com- 
missioner of Appeals. In 1858 he was a,ppointed one of the two 
examiners and visitors of th,e|)ublic schools of Bergen county, a position 
beheld for two years' ' , , . ' 

Many of our citizens were pupils under his tuition at Upjier and 
Tjower Teaneck, and Mr. Cass feels proud of the fact that ex-Judge J. 
M. \'an Valen, of the Court of Common Pleas, was one of his pupils. 
The Judge Teceived his first license as a teacher from Justice, then 
superintendent Cass. 

Other pupils who received their early training under his guidance 
were Rev. S. I. Vanderbeek of the Reformed Church, late of (irand 
Rapids, Mich.; Judge Holt of Galesburgh, N. Y.; H. T. Austin, E. I).. 
now of California; and lawyers, late George Palmer, of East Worchester. 
N. Y.. and Theodore F. Lozier of Jersey City. 

Mr. Cass was married July 4, 1855, to Miss Maria Louisa Halleck. 
a lineal descendant of Fitz Greene Halleck, the celebrated author of 
•• Marco Bozzaris." Miss Halleck was a native of Delaware county, N. 
Y., is now dead. Two children were born to them Willard, now a 
civil engineer, and a daughter, Hattie E., who died at the age of sixteen 
months. Mr. Cass' ancestors were Germans and Hollanders on the ma- 
ternal side, and English on the paternal side. He traces his ancestry 
back to 1686. He is a distant relative of the late U. S. Senator Lewis 
Cass, of Michigan." 

Copied from Englewood Press, of September 7, 1S'I5. 

ABKAM DK KONDE. 

On a common field stone in the old De Ronde grave yard in King 
Valley. Rockland county, New York, is the name of Abram De Ronde, of 
Revolutionary fame. The death of this old soldier occurred in 1781, 
and was caused by a gunshot, in an attempt the Americans were mak- 
ing to recapture him from the enemy who had taken him while he was 
conducting an expedition to Clinton Point. 




0<*^^^=-5:?Z^ A^ 



HISTOKY OF BHKGEN COUNTY ()2.> 



William I)e Rondo was the i^randson of Hendrick De Ronde one (d' 
the ancestors of this family who e"aine frcjm Holland in Colonial days and 
settled on Long- Island. The De Ronde's were French Huguenots, who 
like others failed to find an asylum in Holland and came to this country 
in consequence. His son William De Ronde married Rachel Goetchess 
and moved to Teaneck, Bergen county about sixty-five years ago. He 
was the father of four children three sons and one daughter. Two sons, 
Abram and John died recently, aged respectively eighty-two and eighty- 
three years. The other son W-^illiam, the father of the subject of this 
sketch, is the well known coal dealer of Englewood and is still living. 
By his marriage to Miss Lavinia Doremus, he became the father of 
seven children, three sons and four daughters, all living excej>t Rachel 
the eldest. 

Abram De Ronde was born in 1S57, and his career, for so young a 
man, has been both financially and politically a brilliant one. His 
education preparatory to entering College was received in the Has- 
brouck Institute, Jersey City, N. J. When seventeen years of age he 
left school and entered upon a business career, which eventually evolved 
the well-known house of Abram De Ronde & Co., a large business firm 
favorably recognized as such throughout the countries of Europe as well 
as in both North and South America. It is not often that financial ven- 
tures backed by syndicates and moneyed influence have forced them- 
selves world wide upon the business public even under these favorable 
circumstances, but Abram De Ronde has accomplished this mercantile 
feat, not only alone but without a dollar to begin the enterprise and 
with the natural drawbacks and disadvantages which always encumber 
such undertakings. 

With a definite conception of life before him and a faith in himself 
necessarily commensurate with the victory to be achieved, Mr. De Ronde 
became first the agent for E. Oakes & Co., 41 Dey Street, New York, 
going- to Boston for this firm, where he succeeded in establishing their 
Eastern house under some trying difficulties and putting it upon a 
solid business foundation. Two years afterwards he established a busi- 
ness for the same firm in Philadelphia, and when twenty-four years of age 
launched out for himself in the manufacturing and importing of chemi- 
cals, colors and dyes, with offices in New York, at which place the head- 
quarters of the concern has remained ever since, with branches in Bos- 
ton and Philadelphia. 

The manufacture of nitrate of iron occupied the attention of Mr. 
De Ronde at first, but as business necessitated, other chemicals were 
put upon the market, and the trade eventually so widened that importa- 
tions were undertaken, a large agency with a competent corps of buyers 
and sellers were brought into requisition, so that now the name of 
Abram De Ronde & Co. is well known throughout the old world, and is 
(me of the most prominent of American houses as manufacturers ;ind 
im])orters of all kinds nf chemicals and dye stuffs. 



h24 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

Mr. De Ronde has also become largely identified in real estate in- 
terests, and has built several larg'e houses in Englewood. His own resi- 
dence is one of the most elegant structures in this part of the county. 

In 1889 Mr. De Ronde was elected a member of the State Legisla- 
ture, and was re-elected in 1893. He was afterwards candidate for State 
Senator, but was defeated in the nominating convention. As a prominent 
member of the Democratic party he served four years on the State Com- 
mittee of New Jersey, but not approving of the Chicago platform, he 
resigned that position and took a prominent part in the campaign for 
sound currency. He has also served as a member of the City Council, 
of Englewood, where he now lives. 

IIOSE.S E. SPRINGER. 

Mr. M. E. Springer is one of the oldest citizens of Englewood. and 
was born at the corner of Bedford and Commerce streets, in the old 
Ninth Ward, New York, August 5, 1827. When about five years old he 
was taken to Paterson, N. J., where, at the early period of seven sum- 
mers he began to earn bis own living. He was first put to work in a 
cotton mill and at one time worked in the " Old Red Mill " at Oradell 
At that time he used to walk the entire distance to and from Paterson, 
both morning and night, from and to the house of his grandmother, 
where he resided. 

When about eleven years old he was taken back to the city of New 
York, where he attended a public school on Seventeenth street for a 
short time. He afterward received a brief course of rudimentary instruc- 
tion in the public school, which with an occasional month or two at a 
country school at Cold Spring, and at the Pond Church. Franklin town- 
ship, this county, was all the schooling he received. 

At the age of twelve years he was placed in a shoemaker's store and 
shop, on Houston, opposite Orchard Street, New York city, with a view 
of mastering the mysteries of the cobbler's art. The employment was 
not congenial and at the end of a year and a half he went to reside with 
a Dr. Colville who at that time had a local reputation as the "Scotch 
Doctor," a man who was both a practicing physician and a druggist. 
Master Springer remained here for two 3-ears. During that time he 
mastered the art of making pills, learned to compound drugs and to put 
up physicians' prescriptions. This line of business proved pleasant to 
him, but those who had control of his destiny thought that he should 
learn a trade, and when fifteen years and a half old he was taken to 
Fishkill Landing, " Five Corners," N. Y., and apprenticed to ti country 
carpenter to learn the trade of carpenter and joiner. 

Here he learned to swing the broad-axe, to handle the adze, to 
tongue and groove flooring by hand, to match boards, to dress siding, to 
stick mouldings, and to do all the various things pertaining to house 
building. After working here for about three years Mr. Springer 
became dissatisfied with the prospects in a small country town, and once 
again returned to the city of New York where he obtained employment 




MOSES K. SPKINGEK 



HISTOKY OK KKKCKN COUNTY 627 

for a time, at five shillings a day, under instruction. By close applica- 
tion he soon obtained sufficient knowledge of the art (jf house building, 
to be able to turn his hand to stair building, sash and blind making 
which are now followed as separate trades. 

In the year 1853. Mr. Springer liecame acquainted with Miss Mary 
A. Golding, of English parentage, born in London, but subsequently 
removed to New York. He wedded her in 1854. At this time, and for 
two or three years previously he was in the employ of Mr. A. G. Bogert, 
in Bank street. New York, a brother of Mr. Andrew D. Bogert, of 
Englewood. In his shoj), for some time he occupied the responsible 
position of foreman, until in the Spring of 185(>. 

About this time he started West, landing in B^'averdam, Wisconsin. 
Two years following his arrival at Beaverdam were marked b}- great 
financial depression, and although Mr. Springer worked hard to make the 
business of a steam planing mill and sash and door factory (in which he 
was part owner) successful, the venture proved a failure. Heartily 
tired and sick of the West he turned his feet toward his former home. 
To reach this he was obliged to obtain some pecuniary assistance, hav- 
ing wasted his substance and accumulation of former years in his 
ill-stared venture in Beaverdam. 

As Mr. Springer and family were about ready to start for the East 
they heard through a friend of the existence of a place called Engle- 
wood, and where carpenters would be in demand to put up houses which 
it was supposed would soon be needed for the accommodation of the 
multitude expected to flock to its beautiful site. This news was the 
changing factor in Mr. Springer's life. It brought him to Englewood 
in time to grow up with the town and to be identified with its founders. 
With his little family of wife, two girls and a boy, he left Beaverdam. 
and on April 10, 1859, landing in Englewood. At first he occupied the 
house which has recently been known as the Metzler house, now in 
Lafayette Park; and worked for a year as a journeyman carpenter for 
Messrs. Van Brunt & Waters, whose shop -a brick building with steam 
power — was located at what was then called \'an Brunt's Station, on 
Railroad avenue, near Grand. 

Arriving thus in the infant days of the town, Mr. Springer natur- 
allv assisted in putting up scmie of the first buildings which were 
erected in the place. He helped to build the first railroad station at 
Englewood, and also aided in constructing the water tank for the rail- 
road, Englewood then being a watering station. He further contri- 
buted his labor in the building of the Presbyterian Chapel which for a 
long time occupied the site where the Church now stands. 

In the Spring of 18()0 Mr. Springer purchased the interest of Mr. 
Waters in the firm and entered into a co-partnership with Mr. Adriance 
Van Hrunt. One of the first buildings erected by them vras the store 
now occupied by Mr. H. J. DeMott, on Palisade Avenue, by the rail- 
road. In this building Englewood had its first post-office located. Mr. 
John Van Brunt, then the owner, being the first postmaster. The 



628 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

small building' now owned and occupied by tbe Woman's Exchange was 
erected along- side the Van Brunt building and was used as Van Brunt 
& Springer's office. 

At the close of the civil war thej removed their shop from Van 
Brunt's station, and erected the large building west of the railroad, 
for a time known as the Ramie Spinning Works, although used 
at one time as a rubber factory, subsequently as the Democratic 
Campaign headquarters during the Cleveland campaign, and since 
as a livery stable. They fitted the building with steam power 
and introduced the many wood working machines required in con- 
ducting a large business for building purposes. Mr. Joseph Blauvelt 
was about this time taken into partnership with Messrs. Van Brunt & 
Springer, and the firm became ''Van Brunt, Springer & Blauvelt." 
After a few years Mr. Springer purchased the interest of his two partners 
and then for a number of years conducted the business alone. During 
this time he erected many substantial residences. 

Mr. Springer has been connected with the Methodist Episcopal 
Church of Englewood almost from the date of its organization, both 
himself and wife having united with it during the pastorate of the Rev. 
Mr. Hewett, who was in charge during the first six months after the 
erection and dedication of the building. He has been a member of the 
Official Board of the church from that time to the present, and was 
largely instrumental in raising the funds necessary for the work of en- 
larging the church building in 1<S()9, during the pastorate of Rev. E. 
W. Burr. 

Mr. Springer has always been greatly interested in the subject of 
temperance, and to him is due the credit of the establishment of the 
Englewood Lodge of Good Templars, No. 103, April 12, 1870. He was 
also instrumental in establishing a children's order called the Temple 
of Honor. He was also one of the charter members of Tuscan Lodge, 
F. and A. M., of Englewood, and was the third Grand Master of the 
Lodge, holding that office for two j-ears. For fifteen consecutive years 
he was one of the trustees of the Englewood Free School, and for a 
considerable portion of that time he held the position of District Clerk. 
He has also been connected with Brookside Cemetery as its Superin- 
tendent, from the date of its organization, and still holds that position, 
as well as being one of the the trustees and secretary of the Cemetery 
Association. 

In 1872 Mr. Springer retired from the business of carpenter and 
builder. But having subsequently invested heavily in considerable 
property he also burdened himself with a heavy mortgage in the pur- 
chases. The financial depression of 1873 followed with its reverse and 
shrinkage of values, and the result proved disastrous, leaving him some 
S4,()00 worse off than nothing, and he was obliged to begin life over 
again. 

In the fall of 1X75 he started in his present business of Undertaker 
and Funeral Director, in which he has been successful. During the 




JnaiUuaST^^^^'' 



HISTOKV OK BKKGEN COUNTY 631 

winter of 1875-76 he started a hardware and house furnishing store, 
having- purchased entirely on credit the stock and fixtures of a small 
store of that description in the Parramore building, on Palisade avenue. 
He continued at this stand until his growing stock became too large for 
the building, when he leased a much larger store in the Athenaeum 
building and fitted same up with especial reference to the necessities of 
his trade. The work of fitting up was done by himself. He then took 
his son, who had been clerking for him from the start, into partnership, 
and for a time the firm did a thriving business. The Athenaeum was 
destroyed by fire in November 1887, and their business went up as the 
building was dissipated in smoke. During the time he was engaged in 
the hardware business Mr. Springer succeeded in paying off the entire 
debt incurred during the financial depression of 1873. 

After the fire at the Athenaeum Mr. Springer again, for a few years, 
devoted himself to the business of constructing houses, putting up a 
number of dwellings in Englewood. But the attention this required in 
addition to the duties pertaining to his profession of undertaker proved 
to great, and he was once more compelled to relinquish the carpenter 
trade. 

In August 1S40 Mr. Springer was elected Secretary of the Engle- 
wood Mutual Loan and Building Association. The success of that 
organization is good proof of the character of his work in that 
capacily. 

His family has been increased since he made Englewood his home 
by a son and daughter, making five children in all, four of whom are 
married. He has seventeen grandchildren, all living, and when he 
gives a Christmas or other family dinner he has a full table indeed. 

Mr. Springer has also served as Assessor for the township of Engle- 
wood, and incidentally while in that position as Secretary to the Board 
of Health. 

It will be seen that his life, while passed in the quiet lines of trade 
and business, has been by no means an uneventful one. Much of it has 
been directly or intimately passed in the building of Englewood, and 
few men have done more than he in his mf)dest way to make the town 
what it is. -From the Eng-lewood Press of August 3, 18M5. 



.\NDKKW DEM.\KEST BOGEUT. 

.\ndrew D. Bogert was born at Teaneck, Bergen county, N. J., May 
2.S, 1835, and is the son of (iilliam and Marie Demarest Bogert. The 
American ancestor of the family was Gilliam Bogert, who emigrated 
from Amsterdam, Holland, in the vear 1662. Mr. Bogert's father was 
a volunteer in the war of 1812. His mother was a direct descendant of 
north of France Huguenot stock. 

Mr. Bogert during his boyhood resided at home on his father's farm, 
receiving a common school education, principally at the Teaneck district 
school, and learned the art of farming, before leaving home, which he 



HISTOKV OF BEKGEN COUNTY 633 

(lid at the age of sixteen. He then went to New York city where he 
served an apprenticeship to the carpentering and building- business, 
during which period he utilized the opportunity- afforded b}- the Cooper 
Institute night school, to master the branches best suited to his pur- 
])ose. Mr. Bogert remained in New York city until the latter part of 
the year 1859, when he removed to Englewood, N. J., and entered into 
the contracting and building business on his own account, in which he 
has since been prominent. During the year 1877, Mr. Bogert purchased 
the Dutch Point saw mill and plant, adjoining the Colt's factory in the 
city of Hartford, Connecticut, where he carried on an extensive log- 
ging and lumbering trade on the Connecticut river, in which Mr. I. S. 
Homans was associated with him. This property, Mr. Bogert sold in 
1878, and returned to Englewood, where he has since continued to 
reside, conducting his extensive contracting and building business, 
constructing many of the tine residences, hotels and public buildings in 
the neighborhood. An enumeration of a few of these includes the 
Englewood House, the Tenaily Hotel, Palisades Mountain House, Fort 
Lee Hotel and Octagon Building, the Methodist, Presbyterian and 
Reformed Dutch churches, the Englewood, Teaneck, and Undercliff 
school buildings. He has also been active in purchasing and promot- 
ing real estate enterprises in Englewood and vicinity, in buying, build- 
ing and selling, and was the promoter of Leonia Park at Leonia, N. J. 

Mr. Bogert was a member of the Englewood Reformed Church until 
1881, and held offices of trust. Since that time he has been a member of 
the Englewood Presbyterian Church. He became a member of the Hol- 
land Society of New York in 1889, and was elected vice-president for 
Bergen county in 189f). For ten years he has been a director in the 
Englewood Loan and Building Association and has also acted on the 
Building Committee during that time. He has been president of the 
Citizens" Sewer Company since its incorporation in 1882, also a member 
of the Englewood Field Club since its organization. 

In ])olitics Mr. Bogert is an ardent Democrat and has held many 
minor offices of trust. He was elected Chosen Freeholder from Engle- 
wood township in the spring of 1895, and from Englewood city, in 1898, 
his familiarity with architectural construction and finance, well fitting 
him for the office. He has been president of the Democratic County 
Committee for three terms, has alwaj-s been a hard worker and an ener- 
getic organizer in every undertaking. He is of Christian character and 
of such temperate, methodical and unassuming habits, as seems the best 
kind of success with which American life is concerned. 

AKlv'A.M TAI.LMAN. 

Abram Tallman of the firm of Gulnac & Tallman, carpenters and 
builders of Englewood, is a descendant in the direct male line of Douwe 
Harmensen Tallman who came to this country from Friesland, Holland 
in 1658 and settled in Bergen ( now Jersey City ), New Jersey. Douwe 
purchased a tract of land in Nyack, Rockland county, New York, extend- 




ABKAM TALI. MAN. 



HISTOKY OK BKK(;EN COUNTY (>35 

ing from the Hudson River to the Hackensack River and embracing' 
what is now the business portion of the town. His son Tunis and 
Douwe removed to N^ack after his death and became the progenitors of 
all the Tallmans in Rockland county, N. Y. and Bergen county, N. J. 
Mr. Tallman can also trace his connection with many of the other old 
Dutch families who settled in this country in the latter part of the 
seventeenth and the the early part of the eighteenth centuries, among 
them being the DeRonde, Onderdonk, Haring and Blauvelt families of 
Rockland county, N. Y. 

Abram Tallman was born at Tallman's, Rockland, county, N. Y., on 
May 6, 184(). His father, John A. Tallman, like most of his ancestors, was 
a farmer, and Abram's early life was spent on the farm and attending 
school at Sufferns, N. Y. In 1862, when sixteen years of age, he taught 
school for a few months at Tallman's, the first venture he made in life 
for himself. In 1863 and 1864 he was employed in a photograph gallery 
in New York city, but this work proving too trying to his health, he 
returned to Tallman's, and, after six months' rest on the farm, found 
employment at the Ramapo Car Shops, at Ramapo, Rockland county, 
N. Y., where he stayed for the next two years, learning the car building 
trade. Afterwards he worked at the carpenter trade in Sufferns and 
Middletown, N. Y., and Paterson, N. J., and finally, in 1867, came to 
Englewood. From 1867 to 1882 he worked at the building trade in 
Englewood, and in 1882 formed, with Mr. James M. Gulnac, the present 
firm of Gulnac & Tallman. This firm, since 1882, have built up a good 
business and established a first-class reputaticm for themselves as car- 
penters and builders, and are among the leading concerns engaged in 
that business in Englewood, having built many of the city's finest 
residences. 

Mr. Tallman has always taken an active interest in the welfare of 
Englewood, having seen it grow from a village of about fifteen hundred, 
in 1867, when he first came there, to a city of about five thousand five 
hundred inhabitants in 1889 to 189,3. He was a member of the Engle- 
wood Township Committee from 1889 to 1893. He was also a member ' 
of the Citizens' Committee formed in 1895 to promote the movement for 
the incorporation of Englewood as a city, and when the place was finally 
incorporated in 1896, he was elected a member of the first regular City 
Council and was chairman of that body from 1896 to 1898. 

Mr. Tallman was married in 1870 to Miss Maria Zabriskie of what 
is now Oradell, Bergen County, N. J., whose ancestors were am(mg the 
earliest settlers of Bergen County. They have one daughter and three 
sons of whom (me. William Tallman is a lawyer practicing in New 
York city. 

THE BOKOUC.H OF ENC.I.EWOOD CI.IKK.S. 

This borough originally formed a part of Englewood townshij) and 
was organized into a municipality by itself March 11th, 189.S. W. (). 
Allison was elected mayor, and has been continued in office to the pres- 




IJ.WID J,. KAKKICTT. 



HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 



637 



ent time. John (1. Ropes, Assessor and Clerk; and Benjamin Woster- 
velt, Collector, have also held their respective positions from the 
ortranization of the biirou<>h. 




HUDSON KIVKH AND THE PAI.ISAI>H> 



CHAPTER XXX. 
TEANECK TOWNSHIP. 

HOW FOKMED — CIVIL LI.ST — TEANECK GKANGE — SCHOOLS — BIOCIKAPHICAL 

This township was formed from Englewood township and is bounded 
on the north by Berj^enfields boroug-h, east by Eng-lewood city and Le- 
onia borough, south by Bog-ota boroug-h and river, and on the west bv 
the Bogota borough and river. It contains about three thousand live 
hundred acres and has a real estate valuation of four hundred and sixtv 
three thousand, six hundred and seventy-five dollars. The population 
in 1895 was one thousand eight hundred and ninety-five. The official 
vote cast at the November election of 1898 was one hundred and fortv- 
nine. 

The township was incorporated February 13, 1895. The first officers 
were:— Township Clerk, P>ank S. De Ronde, 1895-98; John H. Acker- 
man, 1898-1901; Township Committee, William Bennett, 18<)5-98; Peter 
I. Ackerman, 1895-97; Henry J. Brinkerhoff, 1895-96; Freeholder, John 
J. Phelps, 1895-1901; Assessor, Daniel (i. Bogert, 1895-98; Jonathan 
Hawkins, 1898-1901. Collector, Tunis Cole, 1895-98 (died in 1895), 
Warren M. Cluss appointed to '96, elected '96-98; Jasper Wester velt 1898 
resigned in '98; Robert Stevenson appointed in 1898. Daniel G. Bogert 
elected in 1899-1901. Justices of the Peace, Robert Stevenson, 1S'»5 to 
1900; William Bennett, 1898-1903. Officers elected March 14, 18')9. 
were: — For Township Committee, Henry J. Brinkerhoff; for Collector, 
Daniel G. Bogert; for Constable, Christian Cole, Jr.; for Commissioners 
of Appeals, Peter Rademann, Jasper Westervelt; for Surveyors of High- 
ways, Donald Matheson, Cornelius J. Terhune. 

Teaneck township is a representative of unity so far as politics and 
party are concerned, there never having been a party election held, all 
tickets have been citizens tickets and all nominations have been made 
at citizens primaries. While the political complexion of the township 
is two to one Republican the agreement is favorable to the Democrats 
who could not expect anything from a party vote. 

TEANECK CrKANGE. 

There are no villages in Teaneck township, but a villa grange lies 
within its precincts, of more than usual significance and historical 
importance, extending from Nordhoff in both directions over twenty-five 
miles of roads. It runs through the Phelps estate and is the Mecca of 
thousands during the summer months, who drive or bicycle through the 
woods and shaded groves. 

Here resided William Walter Phelps, our former minister to 
Austria and Germany. His estate included the thousand of acres 
of field, slorje and hill, intersected bv macadamized ro.ids. sli.nU-d bv 



f)40 HISTORY OF BERGEX COUNTY 

forests and ornamental trees. The quaint, low. rambling', wooden 
structure flanked oti the south by an ornate om of stone containing 
drawing- rooms, picture gallery, etc., the whole surrounded by spacious 
grounds beautified bv rare plants and flowering shrubs was for years the 
home residence of the family. This unique Villa-Grange, for years, not 
only the political Mecca of one party, but the seat of hospitality so 
generous and wide as to attract to it persons of all parties and classes, 
unfortunately and to the regret of all, fell with the greater portion of 
its contents, a victim to the cruel ravages of fire, April 1, 1888. 

On the hill New Bridge lies partly in this township and partly in 
Palisade township. It is the locality of Baron Steubens residence, built 
in 1752, but aside from its Revolutionary history and traditions the 
place has but little that is important for this chapter. 

WitLIAM WALTER PHELPS. 

William Walter Phelps, was born in New York city, August 24. 
1839. His father, John Jay Phelps, one of the leading merchants of 
the city, accumulated a large fortune, having been prominently identified 
with many of the imp&rtant enterprises of his day. He was the pro- 
jector and virtual founder of the Delawaro, lyackawanna and Western 
Railroad Company andheld the office of president for many years. 

William Y*' alter, his distinguished son^ received his collegiate edu- 
cation at Yale College from which institution he was graduated with 
high honors in 1860. Following. this he pursued a special line of study 
for a short time in Europe, subsequently taking a leading place in the 
class of 1863, in the Columbia Law School, where he was graduated as 
valedictorian. 

Immediately after being admitted to the bar, Mr. Phelps opened 
offices in New York and was rapidly building up a large practice when 
the death of his father occurring in 1868, changed all his future plans 
for life. The settlement and care of a large estate now demanded his 
attention, compelling him to abandon his profession and devote his 
entire time to private interests. Recognizing his abilities, Governor 
Fenton, had, prior to this, tendered him the appointment to the bench 
of the Sixth Judicial District of New York city. 

The estate upon which he resided is situated near Englewood, N. J., 
and comprises about twenty-nine hundred acres of land. In the midst 
of this stood a residence of palatial proportions filled with treasures 
collected during extensive travel in foreign lands. ( This residence was 
burned April 1, 1888. 

Soon after his removal to Bergen county, Mr. Phelps began to take 
an interest in the success of the Republican party. 

In 1872 he was elected to Congress, representing the Fifth Con- 
gressional District of New Jersey. Forceful and vigorous in oratory, 
ready in debate, and ever the courteous gentleman, he attracted atten- 
tion and made an immediate and marked impression. He was made a 




oMJ. 



9LiM 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 643 

member of the committee on Batikins^ and Commerce, one of the lead- 
ing' committees of the House. 

His statesmanlike abilities were quickly recognized by Speaker 
Blaine, who appointed the young New Jersey Cong-ressman upon several 
special committees of the highest importance, where he acquitted him- 
self with such fairness and good judgment as to elicit the approval of 
prominent m>n and the newspapers of all parties. 

It was at this tim; that a warm friendship and close personal inti- 
macy sprang up between Mr. Phelps and Mr. Blaine which was life 
lasting. 

Mr. Phelps was renominated for Congress in 1874, which was a 
Democratic tidal wave year, and although he ran six hundred votes 
ahead of his ticket, the Democratic candidate was elected by a plurality 
of seven. He declined to become a candidate again in 1878, his private 
business demanding his whole attention. 

In 1880 he was a delegate-at-large from the state of New Jersey to 
the National Republican Convention at Chicago, where he worked 
heroically for the nomination of James G. Blaine for president, but 
with characteristic gracefulness he accepted the inevitable, and at once 
threw his influence and hearty support toward the election of Mr. 
Garfield. 

His health giving way during this campaign, he was ordered abroad 
by his ph3'sicians and sailed in October. In the Spring of 1881, while 
still abroad, he received the appointment of Minister to Austria from 
the new administration. This he accepted but resigned the new posi- 
tion after the death of Mr. Garfield three months later. He, how- 
ever, remained in his position at the Court of Vienna for another year 
before being relieved by a successor. 

On returning to this country in 1882, he found his party ready to 
again nominate him for a seat in the National House of Representatives. 
He was elected by a handsome plurality, and was re-elected in i884, 
and again in i886, each time by an increased majority. 

He positively declined a re-nomination for Congress in 1888, and 
at the Republican National Convention, that year his name was pre- 
sented as a candidate for the vice-presidency, and he received a vote 
next to that of Mr. Morton of New York, the successful candidate. 

Mr. Phelps had no sooner closed his Congressional career in March. 
1889, than he was appointed by President Harrison, one of the Com- 
missioners to represent the United States at the International Congress 
<m the Samoan question which met in Berlin in the coming April. Here 
Mr. Phelps and his American associates as well as some of the leading 
diplomats of Europe, had to measure swords with Bismark and his 
talented son, Herbert. 

It was agreed on all sides that American interests had been splen- 
didly guarded in this conference. Mr. Phelps arrived in this ccmntry 
with the treaty in June. The exaniinati(m of the treaty proved so 
satisfactorv to our government that in two weeks after Mr. Phelps 



(>44 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

returned, he was nominated by the President to be Minister to Getmanv, 
Mr. Harrison remarking at the time that it was the reward of merit. 
His nomination was promptly contirmed by the Senate which was thon 
in session. Mr. Phelps tilled the Berlin mission until superseded in llu- 
summer of 1S<)3 by Ex-Chancellor Theodore Runyon the appointee 
of President Cleveland. The mutual regard which had grown u]> 
between the American Commission and Prince Bismark during the 
Samoan Conference, proved of much assistance to Mr. Phelps when he 
went back as Minister and it enabled him to perform important services 
to the United States which his predecessor had failed to secure, especi- 
ally in the removal of the embargo on American port products. 

Before Mr. Phelps left Berlin, he received an appointment imm 
(lovernor Werts to be a special judge of the Court of Errors and 
Ajjpeals of the State of New Jersey. Mr. Phelps accepted the honor, 
and the choice of so distinguished a man to serve in the court was 
warmly applauded throughout New Jersey. Mr. Phelps took a keen 
interest in the work of the court, but his health never robust began 
rapidly to fail, and his illness made rapid progress early in the Spring 
of 1894. Governor Werts had named him as one of the Commissioners 
provided for by a joint resolution of the Legislature to revise the con- 
stitution of the State. Mr. Phelps looked forward with great interest 
to the work of this body, which was to hold its first session the latter 
part of June, but it was fated that he should never meet his distin- 
guished associates of that Commission, for on the seventeenth day of 
June he died. 

While always the possessor of ample wealth, Mr. Phelps was most 
democratic in his manners. His hospitalit}- was proverbial, and his 
house was in every sense of the word made a home to all his guests. 
His popularity with all his neighbors and the people of Bergen county 
was demonstrated on many occasions. He was the kindest of employers; 
his large contributions to private charities and his generous gifts to the 
needy were without ostentation. 

His financial standing and his character for probity were of the 
highest. He made notable pecuniary sacrifices to save the credit of 
others. His business interests were extensive, and he was an influential 
member of the directories of many companies and institutions. 

While a positive party man, early in his public career he established 
a character for political independence and liberality which gained him a 
jjublic respect that he never lost. 

He was a fluent talker, and as an orator he was natural and cnncise, 
discarding the ornate, and speaking in the choicest diction directly to 
the point. His wit was ever bright, keen and fresh. In Congress he did 
not speak often, Ijut he was among the few in the House whu wen- 
always listened to. 

Soon after concluding his collegiate course Mr. Phelps was married 
to a daughter of Joseph E. Sheffield, the founder of the Sheffield Scien- 
tific School of New Haven. Of this niarriasje there was one daughter. 




JASPKK WKSTI'.KN'IU.T 




646 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

the wife of Dr. Franz Von Rottenburg', a German scholar and Under 
Secretary of State for the German Empire; and two sons, Captain John 
Jay Phelps of Bergen county, and Colonel Sheffield Phelps, editor of the 
Jersey City Journal. 

THE WESTEKVELT FAMILY. 

The Westervelt family trace their lineage to 
Derick Van Westervelt who was born about 152tt. 
In Holland, the native place of this family, they 
occupied places of honor and trust such as burgo- 
masters, students, doctors and as landed proprietors. 
Lubbert Lubbertse Van Westervelt the first 
American ancestor came in the ship "Hope" in 
1662, from Meppel, Province of Drenthe, Holland. 
^ r t— . 11 He first settled at Flatbush, Long Island, after- 

wards removing to Hackensack, N. J., where he 
assisted in building the first Reformed Church on the "Green" in 16S(.. 
He and his wife were members of this church. 

Benjamin Westervelt, the great great-grandfather of Jasper, was 
the first American ancestor, and was born in 1702. His wife was Hen- 
dricktie Bouguert. Casparus, the son of Benjamin, was born in 1723, 
and married Wyntie Terheun. The grandparents of Mr. Westervelt 
were Casparus C. and Maria (Durie) Westervelt, and his parents were 
Peter C, Jr., and Anna (Lozier) Westervelt. His father was born in 
1811. 

Jasper was bom at Teaneck, Bergen county, December 2, 1837, in 
the same house in which he has resided for the last sixty years, and 
whose foundation walls were laid more than one hundred years ago by 
his great grandfather. The house has been several times rebuilt and 
modernized, and still continues in possession of the family. 

Until fifteen years of age Jasper attended the public schools of his 
native village, after which he was placed in a private school at Leonia, 
and at seventeen years of age entered Claverack Institute, a boarding 
school, situated at Claverack, N. Y. After leaving school Mr. Wester- 
velt began farming, keeping steadily at this occupation until tifty-live 
years of age, when he retired from active business. On the subject of 
pear culture Mr. Westervelt is an enthusiast, holding a first-class 
diploma for the exhibiton of pears, apples and quinces. 

When the call was made for volunteers in our Civil War, Mr. Wes- 
tervelt responded, becoming- a private in Company I, 22d Regiment, N. 
J. Volunteers. He was one of "Father Abraham's Three Hundred 
Thousand;" was in the battles of Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville. 
advancing in the famous mud march under Buruside. He is a member 
of James B. McPhers<m Post, No. 52, Department of N. J., G. A. R.. 
and is at present the Chaplain. In his religious life Mr. Westervelt has 
been a member of the first Reformed Church of Hackensack for the past 
thirtv-nine vears, serving in the consistory of that church under Dr. 




WILLIAM W. KHNNETT. 



HISTOKY OF BEKC.EN COUNTY f>49 



Komevn and Dr. Vandcrwart, both as deacon and elder for a number of 
terms. He was also for man}' years connected with Sabbath school 
as teacher, and subse([uentlv as superintendent. 

He was married on June 22, lHh5, to Miss Annie Maria De Mott, 
(laui^hter of John J. De Mott, who died in 1898. 

In 1888 Mr. Westervelt travelled throug-h the West, takinj^ a tour 
through the most interesting- portions visiting the beautiful points on 
the Pacific coast, the Yosemite Valley, the Columbia River and Yellow- 
stone Park; the large cities also claiming a share of his time. In 18<»(. 
he made an extended tour of the old World, making visits to Holland, 
(iermany, Switzerland at Interlaken and Mont Blanc, France, Belgium 
England. Mr. Westervelt reported after coming back from the old 
World that he still retained his admiration for the new: with the 
sublime, grand and inspiring views of the Yosemite, its peaks in the 
clouds and its beautiful falls descending from dizzy heights; the mag- 
nificent and unequalled scenery on the Columbia river, the Yellowstone 
Park filled with Nature's wonders, Geysers, Hot Springs, beautiful cas- 
cades and grand views of the falls and the gorge of the Yellowstone. 
He says: "Unfurl the Red, White and Blue, it is good enough for all." 

Mr. Westervelt is a man with well stored mind and exemplarv 
character, a pleasant com])anion and true friend. 

WII.I.I.V.M W. BKNMCTT. 

William W. Bennett, Superintendent of the Phelps Estate in Bergen 
county; was born in England, February 4, 1841. When six months old 
his parents came to America and located at Bingham ton, New York, 
where the father died about twelve j-ears later. When eleven years of 
age young Bennett was taken by a Mr. Louis Lee Morris, a farmer of 
Otsego county, N. Y. where he remained six years. This was one of 
the important periods of his life, in which he was trained to habits of 
industry, and frugality and otherwise prepared to meet and solve the 
many difficult and trying problems of life which come to all. At the 
age of seventeen years, the young man met Mr. John Stewart Wells, of 
Binghamton, N. Y., to whom he apprenticed himself to learn the trade 
of carpenter, and remained with him three years, thoroughly master- 
ing this branch oi mechanics, becoming an architect as well. After 
working for a time at his trade at home, he enlisted as a mechanic, in 
the War, in 1862, and stayed with the army in one capacity or another, 
with the construction and repair work on railways, going to Alexandria, 
then to Norfolk and Suffolk, Virginia, remaining for a considerable 
time on the Peninsula where McClellan operated. In 1863 he was 
assigned to the quarter-master's department, under Captain Goodwin, 
and then was employed solely in the construction of Barracks and 
prison houses, and in the manufacture of army furniture, which closed 
his army career. After the fall of Richmond, he applied for his dis- 
charge papers, and while on his way home, when near Turner's Station, 
on the Erie railroad, in New York, President Lincoln was shot, and a 



()50 HISTOKY OF BKKCrKX COUNTY 

sing'ular coincidence was, that he happened to be on the same spot on 
July 2, 1881, when President Garlield was assassinated. 

For two 3'ears after the war, Mr. Bennett followed his trade of 
carpenterinir at Binghampton, N. Y., but in 1867 came to New Jersey, 
g'oing to the home in which he now lives, staying there one year as a 
tenant. In 1882 he returned to the same house, where he has since 
resided. His work in New Jersey, was the erection oi a tine house for 
Judge Phelps, subsequently building a row of houses in Teaneck, and 
following this with a number of buildings in Englewood, then the 
elegant residence of William Walter Phelps, which led to the acquaint- 
anceship of the two men, and the life long superintendency of Mr. Ben- 
nett in the management of the Phelps estate. This was twenty-seven 
years before the death of Mr. Phelps, during which tiirie the large 
interests of this wealthy resident of the county was so ably managed 
and so agreeably with Mr. Phelps' wishes, that substantial considera- 
tions not infrequently accompanied the salary allowed, and also honor- 
al)le mention with flattering financial considerations were made in his 
will. 

Mr. Bennett has been married twice. His first wife was Mrs. 
Mary C. Corby, daughter of Peter and Catherine Terhune to whom he 
was married in 1870. She died in 1875. Two daughters were the fruit 
of this union, Catherine, the younger being the wife of Captain Frank 
S. De Ronde. On June 10, 1877, he was united in marriage to Mrs. 
Margaretta Ferdon, daughter of Gilchrest and Eliza Perry of Nyack, 
N. Y. They are the parents of four children, two boys and two girls, 
the elder of the boys now being a member of the Second Regiment New 
Jersey Volunteers, Infantry. 

When Mr. Bennett first came to Englewood he was elected Town 
Committeeman and held that office for a number of years. He was also 
chosen member of the board of Freeholders and elected by both jiarties 
and re-elected. 

When Teaneck township was formed he was selected by all jjarties 
for Town Committeeman and elected chairman of the Board. This office 
he held three years and then by all parties, was re-elected to the same 
position and also selected for Justice of the Peace. 

Mr. Bennett's life has been a comparatively smooth one. He is a 
kindly man whose lines have fallen in pleasant places. In politics his 
preference has always been Republican, except where in his judgment 
the party needed discipline, in which case he has not hesitated to vote 
with the opposite party. 



CHAPTER XXXI. 
PALISADES TOWNSHIP. 

ICAKl.Y SKTTI.KMKNTS — BUKOl-GIIS OF TEXAl'I.V, DrM(_)\-T, iii;Kr.i;x i-n;i,i>s 

AXl) CKKSSKILL — CHUKCHK.S, .SCHOOLS, .SOCIKTIKS, I.ODCKS. 

ETC. — BIOGKAPHIC.\L SKETCHES. 

Palisades township is of special interest from a historical point of 
\-iew, many <>t" the most interesting- events of the Revolntioii havini;- 
transpired within its borders. In 177h the patriots held F'ort Leo. which 
was a constant source of annoyance to the British, niaking- it almost 
impossible for them to navigate the Hudson river. Lord CornwalHs 
crossed the river to Huyler's Landinjf from Spuyten Duyvil on Novem- 
ber IS. 177(1. He had with him a force of two battalions of light in- 
fantry, two companies of chasseurs, two Itattalions of British an<l two 
of Hessian grenadiers, two battalions of guards and the Thirty-third 
and Forty-second Regiments of the line, (ieneral Washington, who 
was in Hackensack, was immediately notified by (General (Ireen of the 
movements of the enemy, and that he had ordered a retreat of his troups 
to Eng-lish Neighborhood, now in Ridgelield township, and to River 
Edge, now in Palisade township. Washington met (lenera! (ireene at 
River Edo;e (then called New Bridge). After reaching this jdintin 
safety, General Greene returned to Fort Lee and brought up some, who, 
in the rush, had straggled behind. By his quick movements three 
thousand Americans were saved from capture. Huyler's Landing was 
formerly known as Lower Closter. Anumg' the early settlers of this 
township were the Huvlers. Ca])tain John Huyler, who scrxed in the 
militia during' the Revolution, was a special object of vengeance by 
the Krtish. who burned his hf>use and left him in a destitute condition. At 
the close of the war he purchased the estate, which is vet in possession 
of the family, and was a part of the confiscated estate of J(din Ecker- 
son, which was sold for /!^1<)5S. York money. In ISIS this ])roperty 
descended to Peter, born in 17S(i. He died in 1S72. The Demarests 
settled here in early times where Samuel R., was born in 17S3. He 
belonged to the Schraalenburg-h Reformed Dutch Church. The Lozier 
familv were early settlers, coming in the latter ])art of the seventeenth 
century. Daniel Lozier was born in 17o7, and died in 17"»2. The 
Zabriskies also came in the seventeenth century, their descendants con- 
tinuing- to reside in the townshij). The Paulisons who tr.-ice their origin 
to Paulis Pieterse, removed to Bergen from New York about l(i()((. 
Governor Peter Stuyvesant appointed Paulus Pieterse in li)<i,^ one of the 
c<immissi(mers for fortifying Bcrg-en, N. J., against the Indians. For 
his services, he recei\-ed the same year a patent for several ])arcels of 
land. In 1()()2 he subscribed towards the sui)port of a minister at Ber- 
gen and was one of the founders of the Reformed Dutch Churcli organ- 
ized there in li><.4. the earliest in the state. He and his wife both died 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 653 



in 1702. A son of Paulus Pieterse named Martin Paulisse married 
Marg-rietje Westervelt, and their son Paulus Martense, married Rachel 
Demarest. They joined the Reformed Dutch Church in 1731. Their 
descendants still reside in Palisades township 

Palisades wasa part of Hackensack township until 1871. when it was 
organized into a separate township. The first officers were: Samuel 
D. Demarest, who was elected Freeholder in 1871, and was followed by 
John Westervelt in 1875. John H. Anderson was the first Town Clerk 
and served from 1871 to 1873, when he was succeeded by John H. 
Huyler. The first Justice of the Peace was William S. Harris; the first 
Collector, John C. Banta; the first Assessor, Albert A. Terhune. 

The present officers are: J. E. Collins. J. B. Christie, and (i. Buck. 
Townshij) Committee; William Ely. Assessor; Joseph Arnold, Collector; 
Walter Christie, Freeholder, and Ralph Saier. Township Clerk. 

THE PALISADES. 

This precepitous wall of rock, known as the Palisades of the Hud- 
son, have ever been an attraction since discovered by Henrick Hudson 
in l()(t'». This wall of rocks rising from the western shore of the river 
forms the eastern boundary of the old boundary lines of Ridgefield. 
Englewood, Palisades and Harrington townships, to the state line. 

The height of the range near Weehawken is about three hundred 
feet above the river, rising gradually to five hundred and forty feet near 
its northern terminus. This precipice rose at first, undoubtedly, right 
from the river's edge, but time has formed a talus of fragments of the 
trap falling in course of long centuries, as if to guard the deep founda- 
tions below the great river. The range continues in bold precipitous 
heights and rocky bluffs along the river to Haverstraw, a little below 
the Highlands; thence it sways back from the river, rising again in 
lofty escarpments and massive columns to the northwest and the west 
from three hundred to eight hundred feet high. 

In spite of all efforts to prevent the destruction of the Palisades, 
systematic attempts have been made for some time by blasters of rock to 
break up the stone, to be used chiefly for macademizing streets. Indian 
Head one of the most historic points of the Palisades, a few years ago 
projected one hundred and fifty feet into the North River beyond the 
point, where its demolition was effected at four o'clock in the morning, 
on May .^0, 18<^'». The destruction of this massive rock 1>y a blast in 
which at least ten thousand pounds of dynamite were used, and two 
hundred thousand tons of rock torn away was one of the most success- 
ful efforts ever made to destroy the grandeur of this part of the Hudson. 
It broke out an area surface of one hundred and seventy-five by one 
hundred and sixty-five feet and a depth of about (me hundred feet con- 
stituting nearly one-third of the height of the cliff. 

Indian Head is about five hundred yards from Washington Point at 
which the Father of Our Country arrived after the defeat of his forces 
in New York. The declivity up which he climbed still stands although 
the ]>oint is i)racticallv wiped out. 



654 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

TKXAFLY. 

As to the name of this locality it is undoubtedly from a compound 
Holland word signifying "Willow Meadow." The territory embraced 
by the name in question never, exceeded an area of more than six miles. 
The country northward was known as Closter. The section west of 
Tenafiy was known in the remote past by another Dutch word signi- 
fying barren hill. That country to the south of Tenafiy for a dist- 
ance of several miles was known as English Neighborhood. The old 
Tenafiy road connected these two places and was used long years ago as 
a trotting course. 

EAK I.V .SKTTI,EM1{NTS. 

George Huyler who died in 1894 aged eighty years, was one of the 
old residents of Tenafiy. His residence was built and occupied by his 
grandfather John Huyler, who owned part of the forfeited estate of Juhn 
Eckerson, the purchase price having been ^^^IftSS, York money. John 
Huyler owned the premises in question, to 1818, when it descended to 
his son Peter, who died in 1872, aged ninety-two. John Huyler was 
Captain of Militia during the war of the Revolution, and became the 
especial object of British vengeance, his house having been burned and 
his family left destitute. At the close of the war he purchased the 
property above mentioned, which had been confiscated by the State, the 
title deed to him, bearing date 1780. He had two children, John a 
physician of high reputation in New York, and Peter born April 8, 
1781, on the parental estate. Peter married Miss Catharine Naugle, 
daughter of Barney Naugle, whose birth occurred August 26, 1781, 
and the birth of his son George occurred June 24, 1811, George was 
married May 25, 1847 to Miss Jane, daughter of Garret A. Hopper. 
Mr. George Huvler was for fifteen years Captain of Jersey Blues, a 
military organization comprising the foremost men of Bergen county. 

Huyler's Landing on the Hudson, formerly known as Lower Closter 
was the place at which the British crossed the river at the time of their 
raid on F^ort Lee. 

TKNAFLV. 

Tenafiy as a post office, railroad station, anil a part of Palisades 
township has been a pretty village of the northern valley for about forty 
years. In the winter of 189.1 a call was issued by a number of property 
owners for a citizens' meeting at the home of Colonel A. G. Demarest, 
for considering the advisability of incorporating the village of Tenafiy, 
under the borough law of 1879, permitting an area of four square miles. 
The result of that meeting, held January 26th, was a determination to 
applv to Judge Van Valen, of the County Court, for an order to hold an 
election, which application, as required by law, was signed only by 
owners of land in fee simple, within the boundaries of the proposed in- 
corporation. 

The committee apjiointed by that meeting to carry this wish into 
effect were Stchen (i. Clarke, chairman; H. B. Palmer, treasurer; 



HISTOKY OK BKRGEN COUNTY ()55 



William G. Jellison, Frederic L. Colver, H. E. Demarest, J. Hull 
Browning' and Charles E. Vog't. 

There was much opposition to this movement at the time, and not 
a little effort, made leg-ally and politically, to defeat the object at the 
election, there being- cast about three hundred votes, with a majority' of 
only seven in favor of such an organization. This was in January, 
1894. At this time, however, the beneficial effects arising from such an 
incorporation in a municipality, having now an assessed value exceeding 
$800,000, is apparent to all interested, and what was once political dis- 
sent, has now become mutual amity and <rood fellowship. 

OFFICEKS OF THE BOKOUGH AND BOARD OF HEALTH. 

The first officers elected in January 1894 were: — Henry B. Palmer, 
Mayor; Garret W. DeMott, J. Hull Browning, Stephen G. Clarke, Paul 
Richter, James H. Buckley, and Frederic L. Colver, Council; F. R. 
Ing-ersoll, Clerk, succeeded by Warren H. Wendover; Charles J. Everett. 
Assessor; George E. Westervelt, Collector; George H. Westervelt, Mar- 
shal. The last three officials mentioned are still in office. 

The first officers of the Board of Health were: — Dr. J. J. Haring, 
president; Dr. J. B. W. Lansing, secretary; James E. Butler, Richard 
Delahanty and Stephen G. Clarke. Commissioners of Appeals, Messrs 
A. G. Demarest, B. F. Pond, and John R. Zabriskie. The mayors of 
the boroug-h have been as follows: Henry B, Palmer, General Thomas 
L. James, Charles P. Buckley. 

The present officers of Tenafly borough are: Charles P. Buckley, 
mayor; John H. Osterman, J. Hull Browning-, Elias H. Sisson, Jt)hn H. 
DeMott, George Lounsbury, Paul Richter, Councilmen; Maurice Lind- 
say, Clerk. The Board of Health: Drs. Haring and Lansing; Messrs 
Stephen G. Clarke, Richard Delahanty and Frederic L. Colver. 

In the Fall of 1897, in response to a petition signed by Judge 
Ashbel Green and others, who had originally opposed the incorporation 
of the borough, together with many other citizens who favored the 
movement, the New Jersey Legislature passed a special Act extending 
the corporate limits eastward to the Hudson River, which Act took 
effect February 1, 1898. Tenafly is now bounded on the North by Cress- 
kill, South by Englewood, and West by Bergenlields. Tenafly is one 
of the most successful towns in the county under the borough form of 
government, and many desirable improvements are now possessed by the 
people at a moderate tax rate. 

TENAFLY LIBKAKY SOCIETY. 

This society was organized February 5, 1891, in response to a call 
issued by Frederic L. Colver, John W. Hull and William G. Jellison, 
who was then editor of "Tenafly Record." 

The society was incorporated in March, 1S9.^, its object being the 
improvement of its members in literary matters and for maintaining a 



656 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 



reading room, which were reasons sufficient for enlisting the good will 
and kind support of every truly public spirited citizen of the village. 

For several years meetings were held at the homes of members of 
the society, and very frequently from that time many successful enter- 
tainments, literary and otherwise of a public character, have been given. 
Many of the most prominent professional men and women, and citizens 
of Bergen county have delivered lectures on these public occasiims, and 
the society now numbers about one hundred members. 

The present officers are: Trustees, Stephen G. Clarke, Henry B. 
Palmer, A. C. Worth, Fisher Howe Booth, Colonel A. G. Demar'est: 
Secretary, Frederic L. Colver; Treasurer, J. Eddie Tuttle. The pres- 
ent executive committee are F. H. Booth, chairman; Frederic L. Colver, 
Rev. C. W. Kirkby, H. M. Rogers, secretary; James Currie, Mrs. A. G. 
Demarest, Miss Carrie Cauter, Mrs. Samuel Westervelt, Miss Amelia 
Haring. 

The society holds meetings twice a month in its rooms. Tenatlv 




LIBKAKY IIAI.L 

Hall, and (hiring the winter season gives entertainments consisting of 
lectures, debates, public socials, and other affairs for amusement or 
improvement. Being the only non-religious and non-political organ- 
ization for men and women, young and old, it naturally holds a leading 
place in Tenafly, and contributes largely to the literary and social life 
of the community. 

TENAI'I.V HALL COJIPAXY. 

This company was started in the spring of 1891 by a committee 
from the Tenafly Library Society. That commitee consisted of Frederic 
L. Colver, chairman; David H. Gildersleeve, John W. Hull, and A. J. 
Waddell, Jr. In 1892, the company was incorporated with sixteen 
thousand dollars capital stock, the incorporators and officers being: 
Stephen G. Clarke, president; John Hull, vice-president; Frederic L. 
Colver, treasurer; Frank R. Ingersoll, secretarv; Henry B. Palmer, A. 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY b57 

G. Demarest. Frank A. Hiue, B. F. Pond, and E. K. Meigs. The present 
board of officers consists of Mr. Clarke, president; Mr. Browning-, vice- 
presiden.t; Mr. Palmer, treasurer, and Mr. Colver, secretary; and in 
addition Charles H. Sission, Col. A. G. Demarest, John H. Demott, J. 
E. Tuttle, J. S. Lyle. 

This company has a membership of nearly one hundred, built 
Tenafly Hall in 1892-3. This building, modern in its appointments and 
beautifully situated on Highwood Avenue, wasopened under the auspices 
of the Tenafly Library Society on June 6, 1893. It was one of the most 
brilliant social events ever held in Tenafly, there being present fully 
four hundred people admitted by ticket two dollars each. The enter- 
tainment was furnished on this occasion by the New York Philharmonic 
Club and the University Glee Club, followed by a reception. 

The entertainments given in this Hall have always been of a high 
character. The building is used by the borough gov^ernment, the 
Tenafly Library Society, the Tenafly Club and the Royal Arcanum. 
Mr. W. Stoddart, formerly a resident of Tenaflv was architect of Tenaflv 
Hall. 

.SCHOOLS. 

Originally the youth from this vicinity attended the school at Liberty 
Pole. The district was to large, however, and in 1871, the community 
in the meatime having grown rapidily. County Superintendent Cass 
formed the new district, designated as No. 12. The trustees then 
appointed were: Messrs Charles P. Buckley, John Westervelt and Charles 
H. Clarke. In due time lots were purchased from Charles P. Buckley, 
and a beautiful brick structure erected. It was built two stories high 
with mansard roof and basement, and was forty by sixty feet in dimen- 
sions. The building has since been enlarged, there being apartments 
for various grades, and at the present time five teachers are employed. 
Besides the grammar school grades, one year of the high school course 
is taught here. 

When the district was first organized the school was held over the 
store of Peter I. Westervelt, and continued there until the middle of 
October, 1872, when the new building was completed. At that time 
Miss Angle was employed as principal and Miss Libbe Duel as assist- 
ant. Miss Maggie Terhune was principal of the school a number of 
years. Mr. R. S. Maugham, the present principal, took charge of the 
school in 1887. He has live assistant teachers. 



MIS.S HAKING S PKIVATE SCHOOI.. 

There are in average communities some parents who for various 
reasons prefer to have their children pursue their preparatory education 
in a private school judiciously conducted; and hence the demand for such 
opportunity. Recognizing the same, Miss Haring opened a school 
about twelve years ago and has conducted it with marked success. Being 
well qualified for the work both by careful prej)aration and natural teni- 



658 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

perament, she has had under her care each year a group of happy 
children whose elementary training- has been very thorough. 

In conjunction with the intellectual work, eftorts are made to culti- 
vate the moral and religious natures of the children, and to instill into 
the youthful mind high ideas of correct deportment. 

With such aims in view pursued with rare enthusiasm on the teach- 
er's part the result could hardly fail to be in every sense gratifying to 
the patrons of the school. 

The school building is well located on high ground with rural sur- 
roundings in keeping with the work, and not a few parents congratulate 
themselves in being able to place their children under the moral and 
intellectual influence of this private school. 

NORTHERN VALLEY LODGE 3638, KNIGHTS OF HONOK. 

Above Lodge was instituted April 7, 1891, with twenty-six charter 
members. Present membership one hundred and twenty-one including 
seven charter members. 

Four members died since the Lodge was organized, two of the 
widows receiving two thousand dollars each, and two receiving one 
thousand dollars each. 

This Lodge also pays sick benefit to all members in good standing 
at the rate of five dollars per week for ten weeks, and two dollars and a 
half per week for live weeks additional; and has paid as much as two to 
three hundred dollars annually. 

The officers for term of 18W are as follows: S. P. D., J. C. West- 
ervelt; Diet., Jos. A. Jacobs; Vice D., William R. Golding; Asst. D., 
Alexander B. Roberts; Reporter, Nicholas Kreutztieldt; Fmcl. Rep.. 
John Ostermann, Jr.; Treasurer, John Golding; Chaplain, Charles B. 
Hooper, Jr.; Guide, William Ryan; Guardian, Jacob Radner; Sentinel, 
Pacific M. Valle; Lodge Physicians, James B. W. Lansing and Robert 
G. Contrell. The Past Dictators are George E. Tooker, Leonard 
Schenkel, Edward Henkel, Nicholas Kreutzfieldt, Charles P. Wester- 
velt, John Ostermann, Frank H. A. Achilles, Henry M. Hensel, J. C. 
Westervelt. All of above with exception of Messrs. Charles P., and J. 
C. Westervelt are members of the Grand Lodge. Mr. Tooker is assist- 
ant Grand Dictator for the term 1898 to 1899. 

CHURCHES. 

Prior to the vear 1860, the locality then and since known as Tenafly, 
though near the great metropolis, was yet strictly rural, its pojjulation 
being engaged almost wholly in agricultural pursuits. 

Descended from French and Holland ancestry, they were a religi- 
ously inclined and church-going community, having their connections 
with the old Reformed and Seceder churches in Schraalenburgh about 
two miles westward. 

The intervening distance between their residences and these 
churches was not regarded by them as much of an obstacle to regular 
church attendance. Regularly on Sabbath mornings, more or less re- 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEX COUNTY 659 

gardless of weather conditions, the farm horses were harnessed to the 
carry-all vehicle of no standard tji'c, and, filled with the family, the 
church was reached in time to exchange greetings with neighbors and 
relatives before the service. 

The construction of the Northern Railroad through the valley soon 
entirely changed the trend of affairs. Now families began to appear 
who were naturally strangers to and hence uninfluenced by the local 
environments and traditions. Among these were the families of Ashbel 
Green, Henry B. Palmer, William S. Opdyke, Edwin Saxton, William 
K. Fowler, Benson Van Vleet, Lyman F. Holman, Thomas G. Wall, 
D. D., and others. These families soon began considering the religious 
needs of themselves and of the incoming population. Arrangements 
were made for weekly religious services, w^hich were conducted by the 
Rev. Mr. Wall. A small chapel was erected in which services of a union 
nature were held for a year or more. 

By the explosion of a lamp the building was set on lire and totally 
destroyed. Services were afterward held in a building erected by Mr. 
George Huyler for store pur])oses, but rented later for a boarding school 
for boys. 

A denominatit)nal i)reference towards Presbyterianism having from 
the first been apparent, application was made to the Second Presbytery 
of New York, which met at Tenafly on November 21, 18()5, and organized 
the Society under the name of the Tenafly Presbyterian Church, about 
fifteen names constituting the first roll of membership. At the same 
time Edwin S. Saxton and Robert Halley were elected as the first 
board of elders. 

The society was legally incorporated March 31, 18f>(). The follow- 
ing persons were elected upon the first Board of Trustees: Ashbel Green, 
William S. Opdyke, Henry B. Palmer, William K. Fowler, Garret 
Huyler, and Colin G. Newcombe. The board organized on April 2, 1866, 
Ashbel Green being elected president; and Henry B. Palmer, secretary. 
The time now arriving for considering the subject of a permanent build- 
ing, this board took the matter in hand and under its able management 
the present elegant and costly stone edifice soon appeared upon the well 
graded and beautiful site upon the hillside, the latter having been donated 
by the heirs of the Jay estate. At a meeting of the congregation pre- 
sided over by Rev. Dr. Alexander of New York, the Rev. T. G. Wall, 
D. D.. was unanimously chosen as the first pastor. Mr. Wall served the 
church until 1873. 

Rev. Clarence Geddes became his successor on July 16, 1873, and 
continued in the pastorate until June, 1881. Rev. Richard Bentley suc- 
ceeded Mr. Geddes for the following six years, and Mr. Vernon B. Car- 
roll was Mr. Bentley's successor for eight years. The present pastor 
Rev. Fisher Hov^e Booth is in the third year of his pastorate. 

The church has exerted a very wholesome influence upon, and has 
been a useful factor in the experience of a growing community. Ojjpo- 
site the church edifice on a beautiful site, on a high knoll, there stands 



660 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

a noble and commodious stone building erected and donated as a manse, 
by the late Judge Ashbel Green in memory of his wife Louisa B. Green, 
who was closely identified with the church, and whose death was greatly 
lamented by a wide circle of friends. 

CHUKCH OK ATONEMENT. 

There is no record giving the date of organization of this society 
nor any statement relative to the church property made on the church 
books. Mrs. Mahon mother of Captain Mahon, gave the land for the 
church building, and her sister gave the land for the Presbyterian 
church. The first baptism recorded is that of Charles Rowland in 
1869, and the first marriage was in October of that same year. The 
Rev. Ralph B. Hoyt who was the first rector of the church remained 
until 1882. He was succeeded by the Rev. Joseph Fletcher who had 
charge of the congregation until 1890, when the Rev. M. M. Fothergill 
succeeded. The present rector, the Rev. Charles W. Kirkby, A. B. a 
graduate of Cambridge, England, came to take temporary charge of the 
parish in January 1898, and was invited to remain as rector, shortly be- 
fore Easter of that year. Under his spiritual direction the church and 
congregation is rapidly increasing. The officers of the church are: — 
Henry Torrence, Senior Warden; Joseph H. Heddon, Junior Warden; 
H. T. Bailey, H. A. Wolcott, J. F. Denton, David Paul, A. Torrence, 
Vestrymen. St. Luke's Mission, Bergenfields, is a branch work of the 
Church of Atonement, Joseph H. Heddon being the Lay Reader. 

TENAFLY COUNCIL, ROYAL ARCANUM, 1479, 

Tenafly Council, Royal Aacanum, 1479, instituted August i9, 1892. 
Charter members: T. L. Maclntyre, R. S. Maugham, J. C. Westervelt. 
C. H. Buckley, Herbert Westervelt (deceased) J. H. Buckley, T. L. 
Hunter, J. B. W. Lansing, M. D., T. L. Taveniere, Eawin D^^marest, 
James Roome, E. B. Buckley, J. J. Edsall, P. J. Westervelt, W. H. 
Mowerson, J. J. Schuh, George E. Westervelt, W. B. May, F. R. 
Ingersoll. C. P. Westervelt, M. E. Martin, W. G. Trabold, F. J. 
Campbell, H. F. York, Jr., S. Upward, Christie Westervelt, J. C. 
Schnebbe. 

The past Regents are J. H. Buckley, T. L. Maclntyre, R. S. 
Maugham, James Westervelt, H. F. York, E. H. Sisson, Jr. 

The present officers are: Regent, A. I. Benedict; Vice Regent, J. H. 
Demott; Orator, Huyler Bogert; Treasurer, Samuel Westervelt; Secretary, 
Edwin Demarest; Collector, H. J. B. Willis. ( Term expires December 
31 . ) Present membership is eighty-nine. 

Tenafly Council has lost two members by death, Herbert Wester- 
velt and Frank A. Hine, the widows in both cases receiving $3000. 

CHARTER LIST OF NORTHERN VALLEY LODGE K. OF H. 

Northern Valley Lodge 3638 K. of H., was instituted April 7, 1891. 
with twenty-six charter members. Leonard Schenkel, Edward Henkel, 
Theodore Taveniere, Paul M. Hawthorne, John G. Ruhl, Frederick C. 
Evers, (dead); (ieorge Van Valen, Nicolai Kreutzfieldt, John B. Trcn- 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 661 



kle, Isaac Mabie. Jacob H. DeMott, Paul Richter, David W. DeMott, 
Ludwig Mayer, Charles Stag^, Joseph Van Valen, Charles L. A. 
Wenger, John J. Demarest, (dead); Richard J. Lyons, Edward J. Lyons, 
Richard Wright, William Weise, David D. Campbell, Edward Hall, 
Charles P. Westervelt, Jacob A. Tuers. 

"happy land" — FKESH AIK HOME. 

Upon a commanding site on West Clinton avenue about a half mile 
from the railroad depot, owned by Mrs. J. S. Lyle, a wealthy resident 
of Tenafly, there began about six years ago to be evidences of a build- 
ing enterprise of some sort. 

Soon a large and ornate building loomed up, wl ich in due time was 
finished. Its size and general arrangement showed it to be intended for 
some charitable purpose. 

At the commencement of the hot weather of the following vear, a 
group of forty or more children under proper oversight alighted from 
one of the northbound trains. Ct)nveyances were at hand and they were 
taken to the new building designated as "Happy Land." This deter- 
mined the purpose of the building and the nature of the work for which 
it was provided. Since then about four hundred children are annually 
brought from the hot over-crowded districts of New York city in relays 
of fifty, each group remaining about two weeks. While at the Home 
they are under careful management. The beautiful grove upon the 
grounds, well provided with facilities for amusing and interesting the 
children, resounds with happy shouts from morning until evening. 
Nutritious and wholesome meals are well served, and the children are 
taught as far as possible in their short experience, the rules of practical 
politeness and proper behavior. Upon Sabbath afternoons exercises are 
provided to stimulate the religious nature of the children, and when 
each group leaves the Home it is believed they have not only been enter- 
tained and made comfortable physically but that their mental and relig- 
ious natures have received an uplift that may leave a permanent impress 
for good. 

This work is understood to have been inaugurated by Mrs. Lyle, 
who, though delegating its details to able assistants, still gives personal 
oversight to this good enterprise, which in the line of fresh air work 
for children is perhaps not surpassed by any similar movement any- 
where. 

kethmokE home. 

This institution was established by Mrs. J. Hull Browning in 
August, 1892, and incorporated in December, 1892, for the purpose of 
giving a fresh air home to a limited number of poor children from the 
city of New York. During the first year, twelve children were taken 
at a time in the "Home," two weeks being allowed each party to remain. 
The following year the house was enlarged, so the number has been 
increased, and now twenty-six or more are admitted at a time, the num- 
ber for the season being over two hundred. Children were first taken 



662 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 



from St. Aug-ustine Mission, New York, but during the past two years 
the New York Protestant Episcopal City Mission has enjoyed that 
privilege. 

In 1892 the Rethmore Sunday school was established with thirty- 
five scholars. In connection with the school is a Sewing Class and a 
Boys' Battalion of sixty cadets. Recently a Convalescent Home has 
been established at "The Rethmore" for aged people. 

The Rethmore Home (Rethmore means "large spring") consists of 
about four acres of ground, and formerly belonged to the Westervelts' 
estate, but, through the philanthropic spirit of Mr. and Mrs. Browning, 
has been dedicated to uses above mentioned. Mr. J. Hull Browning did 
most of the repairing of the Episcopal Church in Tenafiy in 1882, and 




KETHMOKE HOME 



restored the building to a good condition, and has been a large con- 
tributor to that society. After the establishment of the "Home" 
public services for Episcopalians were begun there, tirst by the Rev. R. 
H. Herron, and subsequently by the Rev. C. B. Mitchell, both of whom 
were from the Union Theological Seminary, New York. 

BOROUGH OF DI'MONT. 

Schraalenburgh is a village on the West Shore Railroad and was 
orginally in Palisades township. It has a population of about six hun- 
dred; is the site of the North Reformed Church, and the center of con- 
siderable mercantile interests in this part of the county. John (Juacken- 
hush owned and operated the first store, which was sold to Peter E. 
Moore, its present jjroprietor, in 1877. Mr. H. Meartens, another 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY hf>3> 



merchant, came here in IS'tS, and DeCiister& Ferdon erected their build- 
ing in 1898. 

The borough of Duraont, orig-inally named Schraalenburgh, was 
organized in 1895 and was at that time three miles square, but in 18'»7 
it was reduced to an area of about two and a half miles. It is 
bounded on the North by Harrington township, on the South bv Ber- 
genlields bort)ugh, on the East by Cresskill borough and on the West bv 
Palisades township. 

The first Mayor of the borough was Dumont Clarke. He was fol- 
lowed by Newton A. Fuller, and Mr. I'^uller bv the present Mavor. 
Richard Van Buskirk. 

The village has a fire department with a membe'-ship of forty men. 
under the chieftaincy of D. J. Whittaker. The Town Hall was erected 
in 18'»(.. 

BOKOUfrH OK BEKGENFIELDS. 

The village of Bergenfields is on the West Shore Railroad, thirteen 
miles from the city of New York, and is the place where the old South 
Dutch Reformed Church is located. John Z. Demarest, freeholder, owns 
the only store in the village. Originally this part of the old township 
of Palisades belonged to the Schraalenburgh district. 

The borough of Bergenfields was organized July 17. 18'>4. The 
first officers were: — W. P. Tyson was the first Mayor; Mr. Walter 
Christie became the second Mayor and was followed by the present in- 
cumbent William Van Valkenburgh. 

THE Dl'TCH KEI'OKMED CHUUCH. 

The Dutch Reformed Church of Schraalenburgh was organized 
about the year 17.24, and the first Church was erected in 1725. The 
Rev. Reinhardt Erickson became the first pastor. In 17,^0, the Rev. 
George Wilhelmus Mancius commenced his work there on September 
19. The next pastor was Rev. Antonius Curtenius in 1737, continuing 
over the two churches (Schraalenburgh and Hackensack ) until 1784, 
when Rev. John Henry Goetschius became his colleague. 

After the strife which resulted in a second church organization, the 
old church called Rev. Dirck Romeyn who was pastor fnmi 1775 to 1785. 

The first pastor of the second church ( known as the South Re- 
formed Church ) was Rev. John Schuyler. Dr. Solomon Froeligh was 
the successor of Mr. Romeyn in the first church in 1786, remaining 
until 1822, when the separation took place which resulted in the forma- 
tion of the "True Reformed Dutch Church." The second pastor was 
Rev. Cornelivis J. Blauvelt, from 1828 to 1852; Rev. Ebeu S. Hammond. 
1858 to 18(>2; Rev. Abram A. Van Houten from 1862 to 1868, followed 
by Rev. Garret A. Haring, 1868, who stills remains its pastor. 

The old North Church at Schraalenlmrgh was built in 1800, after 
repeated attempts to induce the other party, to join in the building of a 
house of worship. Mr. Romeyn served the combined churches thirty- 
three years, but in 1832 when paralysis (lisal)le(I him and a colleague 



664 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

was needed, the church at Schraalenburgh made application for an inde- 
pendent organization, which was granted, and the relations of pastor 
and people then existing, was disolved in April IS.^.^, when that at 
Schraalenburgh became a distinct church. 

The minister's salary was provided for by circulating a paper yearly 
for subscriptions, which were to be paid half yearly. The highest 
amount given was ten dollars and the lowest amount one dollar. The 
amount subscribed for 1817 was three hundred and fort}- dollars and 
eleven cents in money, and sixty-four loads of wood. 

Rev. John Garretson, of Middleburgh, N. Y., was installed pastor 
October 23, 1833, and remained as such until i836, during which time 
the parsonage was built. He was followed by Rev. Michael Osborne, 
of Virginia, May 15,- 1837, who continued with them until 1841. He 
died in 1863. Cornelius Blauvelt, a licentiate, was ordained and in- 
stalled November 16, 1842, remaining until 1858, and in October of that 
Year Rev. William R. Gordon, S. T. D., was installed, and was a suc- 
cessful pastor until i880. 

In June, 1859, the church was enlarged, the cost being S5300. Rev. 
George Seibert entered upon his pastorate October 1, 1880, after which 
many improvements were made in the church property. Rev. George 
H. Cotton succeeded Mr. Seibert about eight years ago, and is the pres- 
ent pastor. 

In 1 784 the congregation of which Rev. Warmoldus Kuypers was 
was pastor, elected John Demarest their precentor, the service 
being conducted entirely in the Dutch language. Dominie Kuyper died 
September 10, 1797. In 1799, Rev. James V. C. Romeyn became his 
successor. One-third of the service was then conducted in English, and 
John P. Durie was made English precentor. For ninety-two years the 
position of precentor was occupied by John Demarest and Isaac D. 
Demarest, except about thirteen years intervening, when Frederick 
Mabie and Jacob Brinkerhoff served. Mr. Demarest was chorister of 
the church fifty-two years. 

CKESSKILL. 

The borough of Cresskill was formed in 1S94, and taken from 
Palisades township. The officers first elected were: James H. Ferdon. 
Mayor; B. I. Westervelt, W. H. Westervelt, John Ferdon, W. A. Tall- 
man, Henry H. Westervelt, William Frazier, Council; A. C. Demarest, 
Assessor; W. V. Wilson, Clerk. 

Mayors of the borough subsequently elected were: Egbert Tallman, 
A. C. Worth and E. B. Westervelt, the present incumbent. Mr. Wilson 
filled the office of Clerk until his removal to Tenafly in 1899. .•\. C. 
Demarest that of Assessor to the present time. 

Colonel A. G. Demarest and I. Smith Homans were among the first 
owners of land in Cresskill. Colonel Demarest had the first store which 
was sold to Daniel H. Voorhis in 1861. This stand is now used for a 
hotel. In 1869 C. A. Demarest bought land of I. Smith Homans and 
erected his wagon works, which have been operated since that time. 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 



About five years later Simeon Westervelt built his carpenter shop in 
the village, since which time with a force of men constantly employed 
he has constructed a great number of houses in Cresskill, being one of 
the largest contractors in this part of the county. 

The Manhattan Optical Company in the vicinity of Cresskill began 
operations a few years ago, manufacturing cameras, lenses, etc. F. and 
E. M. Shafer are largely interested in this plant and in 1894 erected a 
building fifty-two by one hundred feet. They employ a large force of 
help and ship their products over the entire country. Their plant stands 
on ground formerly occupied by J. R. and B. V. Demarest's Woolen 
Mills. 

The school at Cresskill was formerly included in District No. 12, 
Old Hackensack township known as Federal District. The schoolhouse 
stood in Harrington township, on the farm of Samuel A. Demarest, 
afterwards District No. 14. This school was patronized until the year 
1S57, when the trustees made application to have the district divided. 
The application was granted and the organization effected. A lot was 
purchased of John B. Westervelt, corner of Madison Avenue and County 
Road, near Cresskill station. John 'Durie was given the contract to 
build a house, which he erected in a satisfactory manner. The house 
was furnished with seats for seventy-five pupils. 

Miss Ray Ward and R. S. Maugham have each held the principal- 
ship of this school for six or eight years. Robert F. Doyle is the 
present principal. He has one assistant. 

D.WID H. VOOKHIS. 

Albert N. Voorhis, a descendants of Henry Demarest, probably a 
Revolutionary "soldier, who emigrated from Holland in Colonial times 
and settled at Demarest, N. J., was born here about 1760, and died at 
Demarest at the age of seventy-nine years. His two children were 
Henry A. L., and Nicholas N. Henry A. L. Voorhis married Lavinia 
Blauvelt of Old Tappan, N. Y., and raised nine children, four of whom, 
David H., Henry D.. John B. H. and Elizabeth, wife of John P. B. 
Westervelt, are still living. 

David H., the subject of this sketch, is the eldest of the family. 
He was born on the old homestead at Demarest N. J., December 7, 1818. 

At the age of seventeen he went to the city of New York and 
learned the trade of carpenter. Shortly afterwards, however, he formed 
a connection with Ludlan & Lazanby, large tobacconists, who carried 
on an extensive trade with the merchants in the South in their line of 
business, and through them became agents for the Old New York and 
Virginia Steamship Cimipany, which position he kept for nineteen 
years. This company first built and operated the "Roanoke," subse- 
quently building five other vessels, and these were the first ships that 
plied between New York and Virginia. 

Mr. Voorhis was superintendent of the men at the New York Dock, 
and maintained that ])osition with fidelity and satisfaction to the com- 



666 HISTORY OF BEKOEN COUNTY 

pany until the war broke out in 1861, when his vessels were taken into 
government service, which severed his business relations with that corn- 
pan v. Afterwards Mr. Voorhis removed to Cresskill and purchased the 
store and other property of A. G. Demarest. He then built his resi- 
dence here, but carried on the mercantile business but a short time. 

In 1840 Mr. Voorhis married Jane, daughter of Henry Westervelt, 
and by this union became the father of nine children, six of whom are 
now living. His daughter Lizzie M. Voorhis was drowned in the Hud- 
son river in 18S8. 

SIMEON WESTEKVELT. 

Simeon Westervelt, carpenter, is a direct descendant of William 
Lubbertsen Van Westervelt, who came from Meppel, Province of Dren- 
the, Holland, in the ship "Hope," April, i662, and settled in Bergen 
county, sketches of whom and his descendants can be found in the 
chapters on Englewood and Palisades. 

Dower I. and his wife, Anna ( Banta ) Westervelt. daughter of John 
T. Banta, were his grandparents. Their son, John D. Westervelt, of 
Tenaflv, not only carried on a large farm but operated a cider mill on 
an extensive scale. 

Simeon Westervelt was born in Tenafly November 1, 1842. In 18()1 
he enlisted in Captain Vreeland's company. Twenty-second Regiment. 
N. J. Volunteer Infantry, afterwards commanded by Colonel A. G. Dem- 
arest, and was with that command in the war of the Rebellion as a 
drummer boy until mustered out of service. After the war he mastered 
the trade of carpenter, and was with Blauvelt & Bogert, of Englewood. 
for ten years, after which he came to Cresskill and began business fur 
himself. 

November 7, 186f), Mr. Westervelt married Sarah M. Bogert, daugh- 
ter of Jacob S. Bogert, one of the old settlers of Closter, who died March 
1, 1886, over seventy-one years of age. He was the son of Seba Bogert. 
The old Bogert homestead farm is situated in Cresskill, on the Closter 
road, midway between Tenafly and Demarest, N. J. 

During the year after his marriage Mr. Westervelt located on 
twenty acres of this farm, and built his residence in Creskill. Shortly 
after his business settlement he built an office and shop, one of the best 
of its kind in this part of the county. A large force of men has been 
constantly employed, and almost every building in and around Cresskill 
has been built under his supervision. He has also constructed a number 
of large and extensive buildings in the city of New York. In addition 
to other business, Mr. Westervelt owns and operates a cider mill in sea- 
son, consuming great quantities of apples every ^^ear. 

Mr. Westervelt is a member of the G. A. R., Royal Arcanum and 
Masonic fraternity. He is also one of the marshals of the Protective 
Society. Mr. Westervelt is the father of one son and two daughters. 
Arthur Bogert, Antoinette and Alice Irena. The son, Arthur Bogert 
Westervelt, was formerly in the American Exchange National Bank of 
New York city, for a period of twelve years, but is now with Harvey, 



HISTOKY OK BEKGEN COUNTY 667 

Fisko & Co.. (if New York. Ho married Henrietta H. Kohler. and has 
two children. Marian K. and Noeline. 

AAKON C. I)I';M.\1\MvST. 

One of the jjrojeotors of the horoujjfh of Cresskill, and for a number 
of years prominently identified with town and county politics, is A. C. 
Demarest, member and secretary of the Berg'en County Republican 
Committee. Mr. Demarest was born in Sprinir Vallev, N. J. in 1S4S, 
and twenty years afterward went to Spring Valley, N. Y.. where he 
operated a store for a time. In 1869 he came with his father, Cornelius 
A. Demarest, to Cresskill where property was purchased and a wag-on 
sho]) built. The father died in 1885, about sixty-five years of age, since 
which time Mr. A. C. Demarest has conducted the business himself. 
From the time he first came to Bergen county, he has been more or less 
active in politics, having been permanently identified with the Republi- 
can County Committee during the past fifteen years, filling the office of 
chairman for two years and at present being secretary of the board. 
He was one of the organizers of the borough of Cresskill, and has been 
Assessor since its incorporation, and during the same time has been a 
member of the Board of Education, serving as District Clerk of that 
bodv. From 1895 to 1898 he was Freeholder of Palisades Township, and 
was director of the board during the last year of his term. In is'is 
and 1899 he was made Assistant Journal Clerk of the House of Assembly 
for the State of New Jersey. Mr. Demarest is a member of the Odd 
Fellows, and is a Past Grand Master of that fraternity. 

Mr. Demarest married Miss Addie Cluss, daughter of H. H. Cluss 
of Ne^v Bridge in 1868, and has four cliildren. 

THP; KICHTEK M.^NITKACTUKINC COMPANY. 

This company was organized in 1887, by Paul Richter princii>ally 
for the manufacture of window shades, etc., the building having been 
erected for that purpose. William Jefferson Johnson, son of Josiah 
Johnson a Revolutionary soldier and claiming to be the only living son 
of a Revolutionary soldier, was the builder. 

The manufacture of window shades, however, was changed to that 
of textile fabrics, for upholstering and interior decorations, the product 
of these articles at this time having a somewhat worldwide reputation 
and sale. Burlap the article manufactured by Mr. Richter, for interior 
decorations, made from manila or Indian hemp, was a coarse heavy 
material for wall covering or decoration which has been used in many of 
our best colleges, such as Columbia and Bryn Mawr, and similar institu- 
tions in the United States, as well as in hotels and halls. 

Mr. Richter employs a large number of men constantly, and from 
burlap manufactures draperies, canvas, buckram, etc. Mr. Richter is a 
native of (Germany. He has been in business for himself since he was 
seventeen years of age, and as a citizen of Tenafly has been honored 
with various positions of trust and responsibility. lie was one of the 




PAl'I, KICHTKK. 



HISTOKY 01-- BEKGEN COUNTY f)69 



promotors of the borou^-h ^--uvcrnment of Tcnafiy and has been a mem- 
ber of its Borough Council from the time of its incorporation, and is 
at present president of the council. He is also member of the school 
board. 

KLIZABKTH C.VDY STAXTON. 

Elizabeth Cady Stanton, one of the most aygressive of the advocates 
of W(mian Suffrag-e and a leader in the movement ever since she was a 
mere g-irl, was born at Johnstown, N. Y., November 12, 1815, received 
her preparatory education in the Johnstown Academy, where she studied 
Cxreek, Latin and the higher mathematics, with a class of boys. 
Although prepared to enter any college, these institutions not then 
being open to women, she finished her school work in Mrs. Kmma 
Willard's Seminary at Troy, N. Y. 

Mrs. Stanton's father was Daniel Cady, an eminent jurist, a ju<lge 
of the Court of Appeals of the State of New York, and a man of un- 
impeachable integrity. Judge Cady remained on the bench until eighty- 
four years of age when he resigned, having filled out a length of time 
hitherto unknown in a similar position. The mother of Mrs. Stanton, 
was Margaret Livingston a direct descendant of Chancellor Robert Liv- 
ingston, who administered the oath to Washington at his inauguratiim. 

The Cady family consisted of six children, the eldest of whom, and 
thecmlyson, died soon after the completion of his collegiate course. 
His father was well-nigh inconsolable, and at one time exclaimed to his 
daughter Elizabeth, then eleven years of age, "I wish you were a boy." 
This in a measure caused her determination to become as nearly like one 
in her aims and studies as possible. Gerritt Smith, her cousin, was an 
influential factor in the formation of her future career, and it was in his 
house she met Henry B. Stanton the notable author, philanthropist and 
reformer, whom she married in 1840. Previous to her marriage she had 
spent much time in her father's office, where she read Blackstone and 
Kent and often listened to the complaints of women who felt injured at 
not being allowed a voice in the care of their inherited property. 

Accompaning her husband to the World's Anti-Slavery Conventi<.n 
in London, she met among others who proved to be valuable acquaint- 
ances, the devoted and now sainted Lucretia Mott, a (Juaker preacher, 
a woman of rare ability and religious fervor. These two energetic and 
aggressive women returned to America together, and in 1S48 called a 
Woman's Rights Conventi<m to meet in Seneca Falls, N. Y., on July I'tth 
and 20th of that year. Mrs. Stanton had spent the years of 1845-4(.-47 at 
Albany, during which time she had used her influence toward inducing 
members of the legislature to vote for the "Woman's Rights Bill," then 
before the public. In 1848 she had the pleasure of seeing this bill 
passed, giving married women the right to hold and control their in- 
herited property. Her work during all the years since have been along 
the same lines— Woman's Suffrage — as a means to woman's so-called 
emancipation. 



670 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

It was not until ISd') that Mrs. Stanton became a resident of Tena- 
fly, N. J., where she iiurnediatelj set to work to bring- about reforms for 
the women of this State, and in 1880 caused a little sensation by attempt- 
ing to vote, leaving her ballot lying on the edge of the box, with the 
remark that, with the inspector lay the responsibility of refusing the 
vote of a citizen of New Jersey. 

Mrs. Stanton is now living, more than fourscore years of age, and 
in 1898 published the reminiscences of her busy life, under the title of 
"Eighty Years or More, Reminiscences of Elizabeth Cady Stanton." 

Of her six children, Daniel Cady was at one time a member of the 
Louisiana Legislature, Henry Gerritt and Robert are lawyers, Theodore 
is an author, Margaret a professor and Harriet is an author and 
reformer. 

Comparativeh- few persons, either men or women, live to the age of 
Mrs. Stanton retaining the mental and physical vigor she possesses. 

EX-POSTMA.STEK GENEKAL THOMAS L. JAMES. 

Ex^Postmaster General Thomas L. James, the present president <>f 
Lincoln Bank, New York city, is of pure Welsh ancestry. Both his 
paternal and maternal grandparents came to America from Wales in 
1801). He was born and educated in Utica, N. Y., learning the trade of 
printer, in the office of the Utica Liberty Press. Subsequently he 
bought the Madison County Journal, a Whig newspaper, published at 
Hamilton, N. Y. In 1856, his paper united with the Democratic Re- 
flector, under the name of Democratic Republican. Mr. James' career 
in newspaper work, covered a period of ten years, and in the meantime 
he incidentally acted as collector of canal tolls at Hamilton for a year 
or more. In 18bl, having been appointed Inspector of Customs, he 
removed to New York city. Later he was appointed Weigher, and in 
1870 was made Deputy Collector and placed in charge of the Ware- 
house Division and the bonded warehouses of the port. His methodical 
and systematic manner of conducting business, in a few months estab- 
lished order and efficiency, where confusion and laxity had heretofore 
existed. 

General Chester A. Arthur, who was then Collector of the Port 
appointed Mr. James a member of the civil service board of the Col- 
lectors and Surveyors offices, of which board he was soon after ma<le 
chairman. 

(reneral James was appointed postmaster of the city of New York 
bv president Grant, March 17, 1873 and was re-appointed four years 
later bv President Hayes. Laying aside all partisanship he set to work 
to imi)rove the postal facilities, succeeded in increasing the number of 
deliveries. He also developed the fast mail service, expediated the 
foreign mails and promoted the greater security of the mail generally, 
bv various carefully considered devices. By conducting the office on 
purelv business principles, he won the respect and confidence of both 
])olitical parties. Fpon the removal of General Arthur, from the office 




CHAKI.ICS I.. A. Wl'lNOlMv'. 



672 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

of Collector of the Port of New York, President Ha3-es offered the 
place to General James, who out of courtesy and respect to General 
Arthur refused to supersede him. Soon after this, when David M. Key 
resigned the Cabinet office of Postmaster General, the president ten- 
dered the place to General James, but this too was declined. In the 
same year he was urged to go on the local ticket for mayor of New 
York, which he also refused. So widely known had the reforms in the 
New York post office become, that experts were sent from European 
governments, for the purpose of looking into the details of the manage- 
ment of the New York office. The post office authorities in Kngland 
were disposed to rank Postmaster James with Rowland Hill, Scudamore, 
Chetwynd, and others who accomplished postal system reforms. 

When President Gartield selected his Cabinet, Thomas L. James 
was appointed Postmaster General, and while remaining in office but 
ten months, he yet applied business methods and rigid discipline the 
current of affairs, resulting in complete reform. 

General James is a local member of the St. David's Society, an 
association of the Sons of Wales. He was president of this society' 
two years, a position his son, Charles F. James, now holds. He is also 
a member of the Union League. He belongs to the Atlantic Yacht 
Club, the Englewood Club, the Tenafly Club, as well as to several 
church and commercial bodies. 



CHARLES L. A. WENGEK. 

Charles L. A. Wenger was born at Alsace, now a German province. 
December 15, 1854. His father, Bernard D. G. Wenger, took an active 
part in the affairs of his locality, serving as collector and assessor, and 
in other official capacities. Charles was educated in the boys' school of 
his native place from which he was graduated. Mr. Wenger with true 
German foresight and thrift, became apprenticed to a baker, taking the 
full training of three years. He then worked at his trade for two years, 
coming to America in 1871. Here he settled in Closter, Bergen county, 
in 1874, engaging in business on his own account, which proved a suc- 
cessful undertaking. In 1893 he removed to Tenafly and bought the 
property on Washington street, where he now resides and carries on 
business. 

In 1879 he married Miss Adeline Hincke. By this marriage he has 
four children, John W., Josephine, Lena and Adriana. His second mar- 
riage was in 1896, to Miss Freda Mulfinger. The}- have one child. 
Charles A. Before coming to the United States Mr. Wenger served in 
the French army thirteen months, in the Commissary Department. He 
is a Republican in politics and holds the office of Commissioner of Deeds, 
to which he was appointed by Governor Werts. He is a member of 
Alpine Lodge Ancient Free and Accepted Masons; Odd P^ellows of 
Englewood, and K. of H. Norton Vallev No. .^6.>S. 



HISTOKY OF Bp:kGEN COUNTY 673 

JOHN J. HARING, M. D. 

John J. Haring-, M. D., was born in Rockland count}-, N. Y., March 
15, 1834. His parentag-e was among the Holland Huguenot stock com- 
mon in that county. His education was pursued in the public schools 
and academies progressing to a stage fitting him for entrance to college, 
it being his original intention to complete a college course. A chain of 
circumstances turned him aside from this purpose and in 1852 he began 
the stud}- of medicine in the office of Dr. M. C. Hasbrouck, then the 
leading physician and surgeon in Rockland county. A year later he 
came to the office of Dr. Charles Hasbrouck, a brother of his former 
preceptor, then in an extensive practice in Schraalenburgh, Bergen 
county. His first winter medical course was in the University Medical 
College, his second in the College of Physicians and Surgeons, both in 
New Yf)rk city. A third course was in the Jefferson Medical College of 
Philadelphia, from which he was graduated in 1854. 

Invited to a partnership with his preceptor. Dr. Charles Hasbrouck, 
he accepted the same and for two years performed the larger share of 
the joint work extending over at least forty square miles of territory. 
At the end of that time the entire practice came into his hands by the 
removal of his preceptor to Hackensack. 

For fifteen years Dr. Haring responded to all professional demands 
of this extensive field, he being the only practitioner within its limits. 
The amount of work involved in these demands was known only to him- 
self. Fifteen hours were daily spent in making his professional rounds, 
all of the tooth extracting, fractures, dislocations, and accidents gener- 
ally of the locality, came into his hands. In addition he was compelled 
to perform many of the duties assigned in recent times to the druggist. 

With a view to restricting his professional field and taking advant- 
age of the developments expected from the construction of the Northern 
Railroad, he located at Tenafly thirty years ago, selecting a fine site 
and erecting upon it an attractive and expensive residence, where he 
has since resided and has pursued his profession with unabated activity 
and success. 

Being of a practical matter-of-fact mental make-up, and not given 
to sentimental tendencies, he has pursued the even tenor of his way 
never resorting to any of the doubtful expedients often made use of in 
attaining popularity and professional repute. Naturally reticent and a 
stranger to the art of flattery, there is little about him of what is 
known as personal magnetism. Hence he has never courted social popu- 
larity and has been sparing in his selection of close and confidential 
friends. 

In the domestic life he has found his chief source of satisfaction, 
and has attained to more than the average of its enjoyment. 

Positions of public trust, political and otherwise, have for the most 
part been declined when offered to him. At the present time he is Presi- 
dent of the Health Board of his borough and chairman of the Medical 
Board of the Englewood Hospital. He is the oldest member of the 






J. J. HAKINC, M. D. 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 675 



Herjren County Medical Society-, having- been associated with that body 
since its organization, over forty years ago. 

Politically he has been in sympathy with the Democratic party, and 
has frequently and earnestly advocated through the public press some 
of its leading- measures. His religious relations have been with Pres- 
byterianism, having- been an elder for many years in the Tenafly Pres- 
byterian Church and clerk of its session. He is tolerant of the opinion of 
others and is of charitable tendencies, having cheerfully given an un- 
usually large share of time and labor without expectation of pecuniarv 
reward. He is a writer of unusul facility, having made numerous con- 
tributions to various periodicals. Several years ago he published in the 
local weekly paper of his borough a series of paper^, running through 
an entire year, upon the history of the eastern part of Bergen county, 
given reminiscences and personal observations of much interest, from 
which papers we have been privileged to quote in other pages of this 
volume. 

One of the doctor's dreams ( if he mav be supposed to have any i is. 
when he shall retire from active professional life, he may have the op- 
portunity and intellectual vigor to write just one book differing from 
any other printed, which will find favor with serious and thoughtful 
readers, and which may hold a permanent place upon their book shelves. 
This would satisfy the full measure of his future ambition. His large 
circle of acquaintances and friends we feel assured will be gratified if 
this cherished hope shall be realized. 

COLONEL ABRAHAM C. DEMAKEST. 

The subject of this sketch was early imbued with the military 
spirit and at the age of 22, he recruited a company for the now cele- 
brated 71st Regiment of the city of New York, which was then called 
the American Rifles. This regiment was organized during the "Know 
Nothing" excitement in that city, and was composed exclusively of 
American citizens. Colonel Demarest's first commission was received 
in 185.^ from Horatio Seymour, who was then Governor of the state of 
New York. In 1855 he was again commissioned by Governor Myron H. 
Clark and again in 1857 by Governor John H. King. At this time owing 
to his faithfulness in attending to duty and his efficiency in matters 
militarv, he was appointed drill-master, and, during this time, it is a 
matter of record that he never was absent from a drill or a parade. 

Those who remember the so-called " Quarantine War" at Staten 
Island and the "Dead Rabbit Riots" in the city of New York, may know 
that the Seventy-first Regiment was called upon, and, by its prompt and 
effective service, put an end to the unpleasant disturbance. 

In 18M», Cohmel Demarest removed to Cresskill, N. J., which neces- 
sitated his retirement from the New York militia. 

The troublous times of the Civil War stirred again his military 
spirit, and, with old-time vigor, he recruited a company in Closter for 
the independent t)attalion of the Hergen County Brigade, and was com- 



67f> HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

missioned captain by Governor Charles S. Olden, in 1862. As soon as 
the companv was formed he commenced to drill his men in his usual 
efficient manner, so that when Governor Olden issued his proclamation, 
calling for New Jersey's quota, under President Lincoln's call for 300, (KKI 
men, he had a nucleus around which to rally recruits for the purpose of 
forming a company, which he did by enlisting volunteers, and by Sep- 
tember 1, the limit of time given, had one hundred and fifty men 
recruited from Closter, Cresskill, Tenafly and Englewood. With these 
he reported at the rendezvous in Trenton, when they became a part of 
the Twenty-second New Jersey Volunteer Infantry, which left the 
capital for the seat of war, one thousand strong — eight hundred being 
from Bergen county and two companies of about two hundred men com- 
ing from Mercer county. The Twenty-first New Jersey Regiment, 
which was enlisted in Hudson county, under the same call, was enrolled 
the day previous to the muster-in of the Twenty-second, and proceeded 
to the front. When field officers were appointed. Captain Demarest be- 
came major, which rank he held until January 1863, when he was com- 
missioned colonel. 

The Twenty-second Regiment left Trenton for Washington very hur- 
riedly, and was ordered into camp on East Capitol Hill. In a few days 
the regiment joined the Army of the Potomac and was stationed in the 
defences of Washington at the Chain Bridge, near Georgetown, which 
position it occupied until November 30, when it was ordered to the front. 

During his connection with the army he participated in many of the 
hard-fought battles, until mustered out of service upon the regiment's 
return to Trenton at the expiration of its term of service. 

After the war. Colonel Demarest had in contemplation the assist- 
ing in raising the Second Regiment of New Jersey Cavalry, which was 
afterward formed under Colonel Louis Karge, but the strenuous objec- 
tions of his family deterred him from the purpose, and he returned to 
the management of his mercantile business. Colonel Demarest is a 
prominent member of the Military Order of the Loyal Legion; also of 
the Grand Army of the Republic and of the Society of the Army of the 
Potomac. 

FREDERIC L. COLVER. 

Frederic L. Colver is of New England and New York ancestry, 
but was born in Milwaukee, Wis., October 13, 1863. He resided in 
Brooklyn. N.Y., from 1866 to 1888, removing then to Tenafly, where he 
has since lived and built a home. His tastes early inclined him to the 
publishing business, and at seventeen years of age he began the pub- 
lication, in Brooklyn, of the "Philomathean Review," the official paper 
of the Philomathean Society, of which society Mr. Colver was one of 
the founders and presidents. This paper he succeeded with the "Brook- 
lyn Magazine" in 1886, organizing a stock company to publish this 
magazine, a department of which contained the sermons of Henry Ward 
Beecher and T. DeWitt Talmage. During the last winter of Mr. 
Beecher's life, 1886-7, he conducted a newspaper syndicate of Beecher 



HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 



677 



articles. In 1S87 the "Brooklyn Magazine" was succeeded b}' the 
"American Magazine," with Mr. Colver as manager. In May, 1889, 
Mr. Colver accepted the post of advertising- manager for Frank Leslie's 
publications, after serving a short time as partner in a book publishing 
business. He was lessee and manager of Frank Leslie's Publishing 
House from 18M5 to July 1, 1898, at which date he incorporated the 
business under the Frank Leslie Publishing House, with Mrs. Frank 
Leslie as president and Mr. Colver as secretary and treasurer. In June, 
1899, Mr. Colver was chosen president and general manager. Since his 
removal to Tenafly in 1888, Mr. Colver has taken an active interest in 




FKF.r)i:Kic I 



many public movements. In 1891 he started the Tenatly Library 
Society, now a growing and prosperous literary associaticm. 

In the spring of 1892, he was chairman of the committee from that 
society which raised the funds and built the Tenafly Hall, he acting as 
Treasurer of the Tenafly Hall Company. During the years of 1894-.=; 
he was editor and manager of the "Tenafly Record," a weekly news- 
paper, and in the winter of 1892-3, he organized the movement which 
led to the incorporation of Tenafly as a borough in January, 1894. Mr. 
Colver served cm the first Borough Council, and in 1S9S was a])pi.inted 



678 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

a member i)f the Board of Health. He is an active worker and officer in 
the Presbyterian church, and a member of the Tenafly Council, Royal 
Arcanum. 

Mr. Colver is married to Lillian Frances Warren, of Glens Falls, 
N. Y., and has one child, Frederic Beecher Colver. 

HENRY B. PALMER. 

Henry B. Palmer, first mayor of Tenafly, is a native of New York- 
city and was born in 1840. He received his education in the city of New 
York, where he has also been identified with the firm of Barrett, Palmer 
& Heal, for years one of the largest dyeing- establishments in the coun- 
try. The works of this company are at Nordhoff, N. J., and the business 
done by them is extensive. Mr. Palmer is also president of the "Old 
Staten Island Dyeing Establishment," the largest of the kind in the 
world. He came to Tenafly about the close of the Civil War where he 
has since resided. As one of the public spirited citizens of the new 
borough, he was elected its first mayor, and was subsequently re-elected 
to the position twice afterward, both preceeding and succeeding General 
James in that office. 

PROFESSOR R. S. MAUGHAM. 

Professor R. S. Maugham, principal of the schools at Tenafly, and 
Recorder of that borough, is a native of Jersey City and was born in 
1859. His father Joseph B. Maugham, Supervising principal of Bern- 
ard township, Somerset county, N. J. came from England just prior to 
the war of the Rebellion, locating in this state, where his life since that 
time has been given to educational work. Being a teacher and a 
scholar, his son, the subject of this sketch, received from him a course 
of instruction and mind training equal to that pursued by those who 
secure classical degrees in our colleges of the present time. Possessing 
a logical mind and with a taste for scientific subjects, such topics as 
evolution and the science of life, has engaged his attention, both as a 
writer and a lecturer. 

As an educator, however, he has devoted his energies, since eigh- 
teen years of age, to the work of teaching in the public schools, first in 
Tuckerton, N. J., then in Cresskill, for a period of six or eight years, 
coming here in 1887 where he has remained to the present time at the 
head of the Tenafly schools. He is public spirited and jxissesses qual- 
ities of leadership as in connection with many of the institutions of 
his adopted city will testify. He is a member of the Presbyterian church 
of Tenafly, and was superintendent of the Sabbath school and organist 
of the church for a few years. He was recently appointed Recorder of 
the borough, and is otherwise identified with the government of the 
place. 

BUELL B. BROWN. 

Buell B. Brown, was born in Ashtabula county, Ohio, in 1848. His 
ancestors came from Vermont in the early part of the century, and 
settled on what is known as the Western Reserve, then a wild region- 



HISTORY OF BEKOEN COUNTY 674 

Thev were noted for their public spirit and patriotism, the g-reat-urand- 
father on both sides being soldiers in the Revolutionary war, and the 
grandfathers soldiers of the war of 1812, while the subject of this sketch, 
his father and brother served in the war of the Rebellion. Mr. Brown 
is a distant relative of John Brown, "whose soul is marching on" and 
of Lord Nelson, his mother being a grand-neice of the hero of Trafalgar. 

At the age of sixteen he enlisted as a member of the Sixth Ohio 
Cavalry, and served under General Sheridan until the close of the war. 
He was graduated from the Spencerian Institute of Cleveland, Ohio, in 
lSr>S, the Kingsville Ohio Academy, in 1870, and the Rochester New 
York Business University, in 1871, being an instructor in the last named 
institutiim in 1871-72, when he accepted the principalship of the Louis- 
ville Business College. He afterwards established and conducted sev- 
eral commercial schools, which now bear his name. He has been the 
editor of several weekly papers, and is a frequent contributor to the 
New York press, also author of works on commercial education. He is 
a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, and director of the 
Englewood Loan and Building Association. 

Mr. Brown gave up the school and newspaper business some time 
since and is now a real estate and insurance broker. 

CHAKI.ES p. lU'CKI.KV. 

Charles P. Buckley, Mayor of the borough, is a native of New 
Jersey, but has been a practitioner of law in the city of New York 
for over forty years. He was born in Montclair, N. J., in December 
1834. A few years thereafter his parents moved to the city where he 
received his education. He has followed his profession since 1858, 
when admitted to the bar of the Supreme Court of that State. He was 
appointed a Master in Chancery in 1873 by Chancellor Rumyon. In 18f.5 
he became a resident of Tenafiy, where his name is found in connecticm 
with all the movements in that place, socially, politically and other- 
wise. Mr. Buckley was elected Mayor of the borough of Tenafiy in 
March 18')9. He is a member of Lawyer's and New York Athletic 
Clubs, New York city and of the L<mg Beach Club and Tenafly Club, 
New Jersey. 

AI,I''K'KI) JAKVIS. 

Alfred Jarvis was born at Babylon, Long Island, June 4, 1835, and 
is the son of Rufus and Onee ( Gildersleeve ) Jarvis. Alfred served as 
Lieutenant in the late Civil war, in the 12th Mississippi Regiment from 
April 1, 18()1, until July 10, 18()5. His grandfather Augustus Jarvis 
served in the Revolutionary war. 



CHAPTER XXXII. 
HARRINGTON TOWNSHIP. 

EAKI.V SKTTLEMENT — CIVII, LIST — CLUSTER, DEMAKEST, NOKWCKJD — 
SCHOOLS — CHUKCHES — BIOGK.\PHICAL SKETCHES. 

This township became a separate organization in 1775, having- 
heretofore been a part of old Hackensack. 

The division of the territory for the formation of Washing-ton 
township called forth strong opposition. In i840, howev-er, it was nearly 
equally divided leaving Harrington on the east side, making the line of 
New York state its northern boundary, with the Hudson river on the 
east and Palisades' township on the s;)Uth. Includia-r the borough 
recently taken off it contains fourteen thousand two hundred and one 
acres and has two railroads, the Northern Railroad of New Jersey and 
the West Shore traversing the township from North to South. 

The civil powers of the township at that early day were legallv 
vested in the county board justices and freeholders. The first Chosen 
Freeholders of the townshij) were Johnson Boskirk and Jacob Cole. 
From that time to i794 the records are indefinite, but from the year last 
named the freeholders, with the respective years in which they served, 
will be found as follows: 

1794, Capt. Abr. Haring; ■<)4-')(,, ').S-'»'», Abrni. (i. Haring; 95-96. 
Henry Harring; 97, David Durie; '97-i.S(lil. John I. Banta; 1800-5, Peter 
Harring: 1801-2, '08-13, Jacob I. Banta; 'tl.V5, Cornelius Blauvelt; '06-9. 
John D. Harring; '06-7, '10-11, Carret A. Ackerman; '12-17, John W. 
Ferdon, '14-17, James G. Demarest; "IS, Uavid A. Demarest; '18, Gar- 
ret A. Zabriskie; '19-21, David A. Demarest; '19, Garret A. Zabriskie; 
'20-21, Jacob Al. Terhune; '22-25. John W. Ferdon; '22, 26-28, John R. 
Blauvelt; 23-25, 30, Samuel G. Demarest; 26-28, '31-33, Garret Acker- 
son; '29-39, Jacob I. Blauvelt; '29, Peter Wortendyke; '31-33, Stephen 
Powles; '34-36, Matthew S. Bogert; '34-36, '46-48. John I. Blauvelt; 
'36-40. John H. Zabriskie; '37-39, Aaron H. Westervelt; '40-42, William 
V. D. Harring; '41-43, Samuel R. Demarest; '43-45, Tunis Harring; 
'44, John I. Ackerman, Jr, ; '45-47, Benjamin Bogert; '38-40, Jacob J. 
Ferdon; '49-51, David D. Harring; '51-53, David Doremus; '52-54, Garret 
A. Ackerson; '54-56, Ralph S. Demarest; '56, Peter D. Harring; '57-(>l, 
Garret I. Auryansen; '57-59, Henrv (t. Zabriskie; '60-62, John T. Har- 
ring; '62-64, John S. Powles; '63-64, '(>(>, Abraham C. Eckerson; '66. 
Barney N. Ferdon; '67-68, Cornelius Eckerson, Jr.; '68-70, Ralph S. 
Demarest; '69-70, Abraham Harring; '71, John Van Buskirk; '72-74, 
James P. Blackledge; '75-77, Peter S. Yeury; '78-80, Peter A. Demarest; 
'83-84, John Ackerman, Jr.; ''84-86, Jacob B. Eckerson; '86-90, W. L. 
Lindemann; '90-99, Garret T. Haring; '99, George N. Brewster. 

Justices of the Peace, 1872, Barney A. Ferdon; '75, Henry G. 
Zabriskie; '7(>, Cornelius Eckerscm, Jr., John C. Ackerson. Moses .1. 



HISTOKY OF KHKGEN COUNTY 681 

Taylor; '77, John B. Kipj); '7S. James Y. Van Orden; '80, IMartin De 
Wolf, Allien B. Eckerson; "82, J. P. Andrews. H. G. Zabriskie; "83, P. 
C. De Wolf, James Y. Van Orden. Robert N. Sneden; '85, Jenkins 
Sloat; '88, Moses J. Taylor, Peter C. Ue Wolf, James Y. Van Orden; 
'89, C. Eckerson, Jr.. B. N. Ferdon; ''H, H. Campora, B. N. Ferdon; '')2, 
George Dayton; '9.^, Georg-e Dayton, who still holds that office; J. Y. 
Van Orden, who was elected for five years and J. 1!. Eckerson. who was 
elected for three years. 

Town Clerks. 1871-73, Jacob J. Demarest; '74-76, Cornelius A. 
Eckerson; '77-79, William J. Demarest; 'S()-,S7, Charles L. DuBois; '87- 
89, Charles H. Lyons; '89-9.^, C. A. Eckerson; '93-96, W. C. Endres, 
resig-ned November, 1897, George Dayton a]}pf)inted; '98, George Day- 
ton elected. 

The officers for the year 1899 are: Town Committee. Ward Varian, 
Closter; George E. Tooker, Demarest; (iarret D. Durie, Closter; Town- 
ship Collector, John H. Lindemann. ( loster; Assessor. William J. 
Demarest. Norwood; Township Clerk, George Dayton, Closter. 

EAKI.Y sktti.1':ks. 

The Harings, or Harrings, as the name was sometimes spelled 
were among the first settlers, giving the name to the township 
upon its organization in 1775. Peter Haring came to America 
from North Holland early in the seventeenth century. His son John 
born December 26, 1633. married Margaret Cozine. Their son Cozine 
whose son John, had a son Frederick whose son John, was born June 
14, 1760. He married Jemima, daughter of Tennis Blauvelt. Their 
son Teunis, born September 7, 1787, married Elizabeth Perry who died 
in 1858. Among their children were Abram B., and Jane, wife of Ralph 
S. Demarest. Abram was born on the old homestead May 20, 1811. 
He is a member of the board of freeholders, was surveyor, and was 
sheriff of Bergen county from 1853 to 185(). He also served two terms 
in the State Legislature. 

Peter Westervelt the ancestor of the branch of the family of that 
name living in this part of Bergen county, settled here in the first part 
of the seventeenth century. His scm, Peter Benjamin, was the father 
of John Peter Benjamin of this townshi]). The Blauvelts, Ackermans 
and Ferdons were also early settlers in the township. Garret Ackerson, 
the first of his name in America, settled at Old Tappen. He sometimes 
spelled his name Eckerson. 

SCHOOLS. 

Benjamin Blacklidge, who was the first teacher of English in Ber- 
gen county, located in Harrington township as a doctor in the latter 
part of the eighteenth century. He married Caroline Tallman, and 
began housekeeping in a part of the house in which he taught school, 
teaching both Dutch and English. 

The oldest school house of which we have any definite account was 
built on ground given bv Abraham Ackerman on condition that it 



682 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

should be used always as a school lot. The house was of stone one- 
story high, with two rooms, one of which was for school and the other 
for the teacher to live in. It was in that house that Mr. Blacklidge 
began housekeeping with his sixteen-year-old wife. It was built by 
subscription. The deed was written in Dutch, but was never recorded. 

The first school in Closter City District, No. 15, was a private enter- 
prise begun in 1864 in the basement of the church and became a flourish- 
ing institution. The first public school in this district was opened in 
1870, in a barn rented for the purpose, while the new building was in 
process of erection. This new house was of brick, thirty by seventv- 
one feet and two stories high. Alpine District, No. 16, had no school 
of importance until 1845. 

The old Closter District, No. 17, is in the northeastern part of the 
township, where the first building was of stone, near the house of Moses 
Taylor. This was used until 1830, when a new one was built on the 
farm of Mr. Taylor, where the lease was to be good as long as used for 
school purposes. The next building was erected in 1858, and was 
twenty-eight by forty feet in dimensions. 

Old Tappan District No. 1'^, is upon historic ground. Major Andre 
having been executed near the boundaries of this district. The first 
school building in No. 19 was built a long time ago. According to some 
accounts, it was about 1785, when a little school house was built with 
no ceiling and having a chimney built of sticks and mud. A house 
erected in 1856 was the fourth to be put up in the district, but they did 
not all occupy the same site. 

Harrington township will always be interesting as the locality in 
which young Andre was executed as a spy, October 2, 1780, the execu- 
tion taking place between the village of Tappan and the state line, not 
over two hundred feet from the boundary line of Harrington townshij). 
This vicinity was the scene of the massacre of Colonel Baylor's troop. 
a small force detached from the main army to intercept a British forag- 
ing party. The massacre of these men was a cruel and inhuman act 
calling forth the greatest hatred of the Americans against their British 
foe. 

The liorough of old Tappan was taken out of this township, and 
incorporated in rS94. John H. DeWolf was elected the first mayor 
December 6, 1S')4. and has been re-elected to that office every election 
since that time. 

vn.L.\GES. 

Closter, the largest village in the township, is very pleasantly situ- 
ated on the Northern Railroad of New Jersey, twenty miles from the 
city of New York. It has one hotel, several stores and four churches, 
with a flourishing public school. 

Manufacturing of window shades was begun under the firm name 
of Adam Richter & Co., the business being carried on from that time 
to the present. The present jiroprietor, Mr. Joseph Schuessler, who 



HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 



683 



has always been interested in the company from the beginninir, is to-dav 
manufacturing' about ten thousand every two days. He emjilovs nearly 
twenty hands constantly. 

HOTELS. 

The Closter Hotel was built by William L. Lindemann many years 
■Ago, but it proved a failure, and subsequently, for want of an occuj)ant, 
stood idle for a number of years. Finally a manager, in the person of 
the g-enial landlord, John W. Hutton, took the property, and from that 
time the house became a landmark of some value to the village. Mr. 
Hutton purchased the property in ISS'I. and. in IS'ts. sold it to (rarret I^. 




DHMAK'KS'I' SCH< 



Earing, the present proprietor. Mr. Hutton at one time carried on an 
extensive trucking business in New York, and later opened a large 
restaurant there on Wall and William Streets, where he conducted two 
bars, and kept about thirty men constantly employed. Tiring ol such 
an active life, he sought a home where the remainder of his days could 
be spent in retirement. 

DKM.VKKST. 

The village of Demarest follows next in population. It was lai<l 
out by Ralph S. Demarest, and has a store and church. As a place of 
residence it has attracted a number of New York business men, whose 
coming has helped to build up the place. The Murray Hill House is 



f>84 HISTORY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

located here. An artificial lake adds to the beauty and attractiveness 
of the place. 

XORWOOD. 

This villag-e has two churches, two stores and a hotel. J. Wvman 
Jones, who bought the land, laid it out in lots for a villag-e. Among 
the older settlers Henry ver Valen and his son-in-law. David Hariug, 
are worthy of mention. Mr. Haring lived where Peter A. Blauvelt now 
resides. 

CHUKCHES. 

The Methodists have held services in the town of Harrington since 
the year 1841. At that time Rev. Mr. Stur, a local preacher, from the 
Bedford Church in New York, came to the vicinity of Uemarest and 
held meetings, which were continued by DuBois and others from the 
same church in New York. From that time a movement was set on 
foot which resulted in the building of a church edifice on what is known 
as Hilltop, at a cost of five hundred dollars. The first board of trustees 
consisted of Henry DuBois, Thomas DuBois, Jacob Jordan, and William 
Jordan. Before this church was built, it is stated that the mother of 
Jacob DuBois was in the habit of walking four miles to a Reformed 
Church in the valley. At that time there was no village on the cliff, 
but most of the people lived on the river bank and on the hill. Among 
the early members of this church were Oliver Cosine, Henrv DuBois. 
Thomas DuBois, Mrs. Thomas DuBois. Jacob Jorden. William Jorden. 
Mrs. Springstead, and Mrs. Older. 

In 1857 a new edifice was erected sixty feet long and thirty feet 
wide, the building material being hard bluestone. Mr. NordhofF 
defrayed the architect's expenses. 

The A. M. E. Zion Church of Closter was organi/.ed in IS'H), and is 
a small congregation. 

In the fall of 1860 Rev. E. S. Hammond began preaching at Closter, 
and in February, 1861, at a public meeting held at the house of Peter 
Maxon it was resolved that an effort be made to secure a church edifice 
for the better and permanent accommodation of the county, and in 1862 
a plot of ground was deeded to the congregation by Thomas W. Demar- 
est and wife, and a church was erected under the supervision of Daniel 
Blauvelt, Nicholas Duree, Garret J. Demarest, John H. Stevens, and 
Matthew S. Bogert. The church was completed, and dedicated October 
7, 1862, by Rev. Isaac W. Cole, of Tappan, N. Y. The church was 
organized September 30, 1862. by Rev. W. B. Mabon, Rev. W. R. (iordcn. 
Rev. James Demarest, Jr., and William Williams. The first members 
were Garret J. Demarest, Agnes Westervelt, Peter A. Blauvelt, Elixa 
Herring, Robert D. Huvler. Mrs. R. D. Huyler. John H. Stephens. David 
D. Blauvelt, George H. French, Phebe W. Peck, Gideon Peck, Lydia 
Coddington, Isabella Percell, Margaret H. Hammond, Peter J. White. 
Sarah Zabriskie, and Abraham J. Hopper. The first elders were 
Gideon Peck, Daniel Blauvelt, (larret Demarest; deacons, Peter Blauvelt. 
Abraliaiu J. Ho])per, Peter White. 



HISTORY OF BHKC.EN COITNTY ()S5 



The church is located on the hill, and is built of wood, fiirtv l)V 
sixt\- feet, and cost ten thousand dollars. The pastors have been Co-- 
nelius Blauvelt, 1865, who continued until April 27, 18'^>S, as a su'>-)iv, 
and was succeeded by Rev. P. K. Vaubuskirk, Mav, 18')9, who remained 
in pastoral charge until April, 1SS7, when he was succeeded by the Rev. 
Henry Ward, the present jjastor who took- charge September, 1SS7. 

FIK.ST CONCKM'.CATIONAI. CIIUKCH. 

The First Congregational Church of Closter is the outcome of the 
meetings for prayer, instituted by a number of Christian i)eo)le who 
first met in the building then known as Closter Institute, but is no.v 
Hammond Hall. This prayer service resulted in the People's Churcli, 
organized with eighteen members. December 6, 1877, becoming in time 
the F^irst Congregational Church of Closter. February 22, 1S7S, the 
church was recognized in a council of which Rev. R. B. Howard, of 
East Orange, was moderator, and Rev. William H. Brodhead, of S])ring 
Valley, scribe. The first pastor was Rev. Herbert B. Turner, installed 
February 6, 1879. The dedication of the new church building took 
l)lace on December 8, ISSl. 

In October, 1883, Mr. Turner left the congregation, and in October. 
1884, Rev. G. W. Plack was installed, remaining until September, LS'iO. 
In December of the same year Rev. (i. M. Walton was called, serving 
the church until April, 189,'^, when Rev. C. A. S. Dwight followed him, 
beginning his laliors in November of the same year, and in November, 
1894, was installed, continuing to serve as pastor to the present time. 

A Protestant Episcopal church in the village has a small meniber- 
shij). Rev. Arthur Whitaker is the rector. 

A Lutheran church was built in 1887 in the village of Closter, and 
dedicated in 1888. The membershij) is small. The Rev. (ntstav H. 
Scheild is pastor. 

THIC N(_)K\V()OI) I'Ki:SHVTl-:i<IAN CIU'KCH. 

The Norwood Preslivterian church was established in the f.ill of 
1S()8. Meetings had been held in the hotel parlors for about one vear 
prior to this time. A lot was then donated to the church by J. Wyman 
Jones, upon which a church was erected and dedicated in 1868. The 
building was afterwards remodelled and moved so as to face the street. 
The church was organized May 18, 1869, by Rev. John Spaulding, D. D., 
of New York city, and Rev. Henry M. Booth, of England. Twenty- 
one were received by letter and four on profession of faith. These con- 
sisted of Paul Powless, John Powless, Margretta Powless, Mrs. M. A. 
Kline, William Hammell, Mrs. Elizabeth Hammell, Mary Atwale, 
(ieorge H. French, Mrs. Phiebe French, Eydia Coddington, E. K. 
Houghton, Mrs. Louise S. Houghton, Matthevv H. Houghton, Mrs. 
Sarah S. Houghton, Peter A. Blauvelt, Mrs. Eliza Blauvelt, John H. 
Serviss, Mrs. Mary E. Serviss, Curtiss N. White, Mrs. Delia 1). White, 
C. M. Buck, W. J. Demarest, Leah Demarest, Matthew Powless, and 
Mai^ufie Powless. 



686 HISTORY OF bekc;en county 

The (irst elfk-rs were Paul Powless, William liammell, and George 
H. French. 

The first deacons were Peter A. Blauvelt, Matthew Houghton, John 
H. Serviss. The first pastor was Rev. William P. Fisher, who was 
installed November, 1871; Rev. L. F. Stevens, October 14, 1873; Rev. 
S. M. Jackson, May 30, 1876; Rev. J. E. Abbott, stated supply for 1880; 
Rev. Charles B. Chapin, September 13, 1881, and following him came 
various other clergymen until the present pastor. Rev. William E. 
Westervelt succeeded the, Rev. Mr. Hegerman two or three years ago. 
The present elders are Peter A. Blauvelt and Tunis A. Haring. 

There is a Baptist church in Demarest under the pastorate of Rev. 
Mr. Coleman. This society was organized in 1874, with seventeen 
members, as follows: William M. Whitmore, Mrs. W. M. Whitmore, 
William R. Whitmore, Mrs. W. R. Whitmore, Miss G. P. Whitmore. 
Miss Amelia C. Blacklidge, H. S. Downs, Mrs. H. S. Downs, George 
Allen, Mrs. George Allen, Miss Annie Rich, Miss Nellie Rich. 
Mrs. Mary F. Rich, W^illiam H. W.estervelt, Miss Anna Randall, W. F. 
Laroche, Mrs. W. F. Laroche. 

Meetings were first held in the school house until a church edifice 
could be erected. Mr. Ralph Demarest donated a plot of ground, and 
the erection of a chapel was commenced, and completed in the fall of 
1874. On the 17th of December, 1874, the chapel was dedicated. The 
first pastor was Rev. James H. Andrews, who was called February, 1875. 
He died October 17. 1875. He was succeeded by Rev. B. F. McMichael, 
who was installed October 11. 1876, and preached there until 187*». 
Various other clergymen have had charge of the flock since that time. 
The present pastor is Mr. Coleman. The first deacons were W. J. La- 
roche and William M. Whitmore; trustees, William M. Whitmore and 
William H. Westervelt. 

GAKKKT Z. DK MA WEST. 

Mr. Demarest's early ancestors were among the first settlers of 
Bergen county. Mr. David des Marest of French parentage, together 
with his wife, Marie (Sohier) and their three sons, John, David and 
Samuel, emigrated to America from Amsterdam, Holland, in the shi]> 
" Bcmtekoe," (spotted cow), arriving at New Amsterdam April 16, 
1(>63. On June 8, 1677, a deed of conveyance was made for a large tract 
of land in the northern New Jersey province and Mr. des Marest with 
his entire family settled at what is now known as River Edge, N. J. in 
1()7S. 

Samuel des Marest son of David, married Maria daughter of Simon 
Dreuns, August 11, 1678. They had eleven children. Peter, their son, 
married Margrietie Cornelise Hariugh, a daughter of Cornelise Hariugh, 
one of the first settlers of Tappan, N. J., September 14, 1717, and made 
his home at Schraalenburgh, N. J. having two children, Samuel and 
John. Samuel was born June 5, 1724. and died March 14, 1808. His 
wife Margaret Brinkerhoif who was born October 4. 172<», died March 
21, 1S02, l)ore him the following children: Peter, Hendrick, Cornelius, 




(;ai%'kkt /. i)i;:vi \kicst 



«)88 HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY 

Roeldf and Margaret Ann. All of the sons served in the Revolutionary 
war. The father, Samuel, was captured by the Tory leader, Colonel 
Abraham Van Buskirk, in his famous Old Closter raid and was im- 
prisoned in the Sug-ar House in New York city. Cornelius was killed in 
this raid and Hendrick wounded. Roelof, the grandfather of our sub- 
ject, was born August 23, 1756, and died September 4, 1814. His wife, 
Maria Demarest born August 8, 1756, died May 10, 1810. She had borne 
him three children Samuel R., John R., and Margaret. Samuel R., the 
father of our subject was born February 5, 1783, in the old township of 
Hackensack now Palisades, and died February 24, 1872. His occupa- 
tion was farming and distilling. In politics he was a staunch Demo- 
crat, representing the county in both branches of the State Legis- 
lature. He was a very active man, and was connected with all mat- 
ters in both church and civil life, that pertained to the prosperity and 
welfare of the community, and can safely be classed as a representative 
man of the past He married Elizabeth Zabriskie December 22, 1808, 
who was born February 13, 1789, and died May 14, 1875. Their chil- 
dren were John Z., Ralph S., Cornelia, John S., Maria, Samuel S.. 
Margaret, Catherine, Garret Z., and Ann Eliza. 

Garret Zabriskie Demarest the onl)' surviving son, was born in Lower 
Closter or what is now Demarest, in Harringtown township June 21. 
1829. He married Margaret Zabriskie, a daughter of John Zabris- 
kie, October 18, 1849. She was born October 14, 1830 and died 
October 10, 1893, having borne him two children, John H. Z., who mar- 
ried Elizabeth V. Moore ( children J. Westervelt and Gretta ) and 
William E., who married Sarah Ferdon ( children Margretta, Garret 
and Bessie ). 

Mr. Demarest was educated in the public schools of his town, and 
early in life turned his attention to farming and later entered into the 
coal business, to which enterprise he is now devoting his entire 
attention. 

Mr. Demarest, though a strong Democrat, has never sought any 
political office. He is a man of amiable disposition, and one who has 
the respect of his entire community, always an ardent supporter of all 
enterprises that lead to the advancement and prosperity of his town. 
Mr. Demarest has ever been an earnest supporter of the True Reformed 
Church of Schraalenburgh known as the "South." This church has 
been the place of worship for his ancestors since its organization. 

Mr. G. Z. Demarest is the brother of the Hon. Ralph S. Demarest 
who represented Bergen county in both branches of the Legislature, 
and who held many other offices of trust in the county, being also one 
of the promoters and first directors of the Nothern R. R. of New Jersey. 

Demarest, N. J. was named in honor of this branch of the family. 

CKOKGE D.WTON. 

George Dayton, for many years Justice of the Peace, is a great- 
grandson of Jonathan Dayton, one of the incorporators of the borough 



HISTORY OF BERGEN COUNTY f)8'» 

of Elizabethtown, N. J., and father of General Elias Dayton, who was 
borti in Elizabeth Town in 1737. Here Jonathan, son of General Elias 
Dayton, was born October 16, 1760. General Elias Dayton commauded 
the Third New Jersey Regiment in the Revolutionary war, and was 
made a major-general by act of Congress. His son Jonathan was a 
captain of one of the companies in his father's regiment, and afterwards 
United States Senator. Nathan Dayton, brother of General Elias Day- 
ton, was grandfather of our subject. He was born May 11, 1758, and 
died October, 1842. He also was a Revolutionary soldier. His wife, 
Mehitable (Hutchinson) Dayton, was born October 11. 1750, and died 
June 4, 1803. Their son, Samuel Hutchinson Dayton, father of Judge 
George Dayton, was born on Long Island September 2, 1790, and died 
August 9, 1864. He married Sally S. Crary, October 13, 1814. She was 
bora May 25, 1793, and died March 6, 1846. He was a farmer and spent 
most of his life in the vicinity of Troy, Albany county, N. Y., where 
the subject of our sketch was born October 2, 1827, and where he spent 
the first twenty years of his life. 

A few years before the civil war Judge George Dayton took up his 
abode in the city of New York where he engaged in mercantile pursuits, 
and where he on February 1, 1859, married Miss Martha J. Dennis, 
daughter of Stephen A. Dennis, a manufacturer of jewelry of that city. 
The names of his children are Ella Fitch Wiswall and George Crary 
Dayton. 

In 1868 a residence was established in Rutherford, N. J., and next a 
removal was made to Saratoga county, N. Y. In 1890 Mr. Dayton 
came to Closter, where he has resided ever since. He has held numer- 
ous positions of trust. While in Rutherford he was elected to various 
ofiices and was sent to the State Senate from 1874 to 1877. In 1891 he 
was elected Justice of the Peace, and has since served the township of 
Harrington in that capacity. In 1897 he was elected Township Clerk 
and still holds that office. 

ROBERT GRAHAJI CONTRELI., M. D. 

Among the younger physicians of the county who are fast pushing 
their way to recognition in the profession of medicine, is Doctor R. G. 
Contrell of Closter, N. J., whose admission to the practice of Materia 
Medica, is but recent. He is the son of John P. Contrell of Newark, 
N. J., who has been cashier for Clark's O. N. T. Spool Cotton Works 
for thirty-seven years; and the grandson of John Contrell of New York, 
the proprietor and manufacturer of Contrell's Magic Troches, which 
have been known to the world for years. Doctor Contrell is a native of 
Newark, N. J., in which city he received a public school education. 
Subsequently he was a student at Lafayette College, Easton, Pa., and 
in 1896, his degree of M. D. was received from the University of Penn- 
sylvania, Department of Medicine. Following graduation he took up 
his residence in Newark where he was in charge of the Newark City 
Dispensary until his removal to Tenafly July 2, 1S'»7. He resided here 



600 HISTOKY OF BEKGEN COUNTY 

until October, IS'Ct, when he removed to Closter, N. J., where he is at 
present practicing;-. He is examiner for the Prudential Life Insurance 
Company, Newark. N. J.; the Colonial Life Insurance Company, Jersey 
City, and for the Knights of Honor, Tenafly. 

Dr. Contrell was married on May "^l, 1S4'),, to Miss Ann May Curtis 
of Englewood, N. J. 

MK. CHAKI.ES W. WKTYKX. 

Mr. Charles W. Wetyen, one of the substantial and progressive 
citizens of Closter, is a native of New York city, and was born in 
1S58. He is the son of John Henry and Mrs. Adeline Brickwell 
Wetyen, both of whom were born in Germany. His father came to New 
York when a young man, and was successful, first in the milk business 
then in the grocery trade for ra.any years. About forty years ago he 
moved his family to Bergen county, locating on a valuable tract of land 
near Demarest, N. J. Soon after this time the father died. Mr. Wetyen 
has spent his life principally, in this part of Bergen county. In 18S2 
he was married to Miss Anna L. Schenck, daughter of John Schenck, 
a business man of New York, now dead, and by this union is the father 
of nine children all living. 

In 1S93 Mr. Wetyen took up his family residence in Closter, where 
he his been active in all the forward movements made in the interest of 
his village and church, is identified with the schools, and has been a 
member of the school board for the past five years. He is a stockholder 
and director in the Harrington Building and L«jan Association, is a 
member of the Closter Hook and Ladder Company, and is otherwise 
identified with the interests of the village. 

PETER .V. BLAUVEI.T. 

Peter A. Blauvelt, pioneer undertaker at Norwood, and for many 
years ati official in the church at that place, is a grandson of Abraham 
Blauvelt of Paramus, a history of whom can be found in another part 
of this work. 

Abraham A. Blauvelt, father of Peter A., was born in Paramus, 
but owing to the death of his mother he was placed in infancy under the 
care of an uncle who lived in the vicinity of Norwood. He became a 
farmer, but having learned the trade of tailor followed that occupation 
also. In early manhood he married Mary Bogert, daughter of Matthew 
P. Bogert. By this union he became the father of six children, four 
girls and two boys, all of whom married except one daughter, who died 
when fifty years of age. Mr. Blauvelt senior died in 18()7 at the age of 
sixty-nine. 

Peter A. Blauvelt, the eldest of this family was born in l<S2't. His 
early life was spent in the vicinity of his present residence. In 1S4S he 
married Eliza Haring. daughter of David D., and Leah Vervalen Haring. 
They reside on the estate formerly owned and occupied by Henry Ver- 
valen, grandfather of Mrs. Blauvelt. In 1850, Mr. Blauvelt removed to 
the city of New York, where he followed the business of truckman for 



HISTORY OK BEKGEN COUNTY 691 



several years, returning to Norwood in 1S5S to take charge of the home- 
stead, where Henry Vervalen died in 1.S71, in the eighty-ninth year of 
his age. 

Mr. Bhmvelt has been an active participant in all the affairs of 
Norwood during his residence in the village. For the first few years 
after his return he followed farming, but the past twenty-six years of 
his life he has taken care of the dead, as an undertaker, and has had a 
business experience reaching to all portions of that part of Bergen 
county. 

He was formerly a deacon in the Old Reformed Church, but has 
been for the past twent3--one years an elder and trustee in the Presby- 
terian Church. His children are Leah, now Mrs. T. J. Haring, whose 
husband is a manufacturer of silverware in New York city; and Ira J. 
Hlauvelt, who married Miss Anna De I'ew. Their children are Flor- 
ence and Marjorie. 

David D. Haring died aged eighty-nine years, his wife, Leah, in 
her eight v-first year. 



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